Fire Ant Tetra
Fire Ant Tetra
Fire Ant Tetra (Hyphessobrycon myrmex) is named for the fire ant — myrmex meaning 'ant' in Greek — reflecting the vivid red to orange-red body coloration and small size of this Hyphessobrycon from the São Francisco drainage of Brazil. A rarely seen collector-grade tetra.
Feeding & Care Tip: Sera Vipan Tropical Flakes and Hikari Micro Pellets make excellent daily staples. Supplement 2–3× per week with Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms, Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Baby Brine Shrimp, or Hikari Vibra Bites. Feed small amounts 2–3 times daily.
Native to the São Francisco River drainage in Brazil — one of the major Atlantic-slope river systems of northeastern Brazil. Relatively rarely available in the trade.
Keep in groups of at least 8. Vivid red-orange coloration. Peaceful community tetra.
A collector find from the distinctive São Francisco drainage — vivid coloration and a memorable name.
Care & Ideal Parameters
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Temperament | Peaceful — schooling community |
| Typical Adult Size | 2.0 inches (5 cm) |
| Min. Group Size | 8 minimum |
| Ideal Temp | 73–82°F (23–28°C) |
| Ideal pH | 6.0–7.5 |
| Ideal GH | 3–12 dGH |
| Ideal KH | 1–6 dKH |
| Staple Food | Sera Vipan Tropical Flakes; Hikari Micro Pellets |
| Treat / Supplement | Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms; Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Baby Brine Shrimp; Hikari Vibra Bites |
| Origin | São Francisco River drainage, Brazil |
| Notes | Myrmex = 'ant' (Greek). São Francisco drainage. Vivid red-orange. Rarely available. |
