Orange Lemon Tetra
Orange Lemon Tetra
Orange Lemon Tetra (Hyphessobrycon pulchripinnis) is more widely known as the Lemon Tetra — a subtly beautiful fish whose appeal lies in the interplay of pale lemon-yellow body coloration and vivid yellow-orange fin highlights. The species name pulchripinnis means 'beautiful-finned' in Latin — a well-conditioned fish earns this name fully.
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 Tapajós River system in Brazil. One of the more commonly available Hyphessobrycon species, appreciated for its hardiness and subtly appealing coloration.
Keep in groups of at least 8. The lemon-yellow coloration intensifies considerably in well-conditioned fish fed a high-quality varied diet. A planted aquarium with darker substrate makes the yellow tones appear more vivid.
A tetra that rewards good husbandry with unexpectedly vivid color — the Lemon Tetra shows clearly the difference between adequate and excellent care.
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 | Tapajós River system, Brazil |
| Notes | Pulchripinnis = 'beautiful-finned'. Lemon Tetra alternate name. Color intensifies dramatically with good nutrition. |