Ember Tetra
Ember Tetra
Ember Tetra (Hyphessobrycon amandae) is one of the most popular nano tetras in the planted tank hobby — the vivid ember-orange to red-orange body of well-conditioned males creates a fish that glows like a hot coal against green plants. Named for Amanda Bleher, mother of the explorer Heiko Bleher and herself an important figure in the tropical fish trade. At under an inch, one of the smallest commonly kept tetras. Described by Géry and Junk in 1977.
Feeding & Care Tip: Hikari Micro Pellets (crushed or soaked) and Sera Vipan Baby make excellent daily staples. Supplement 2–3× per week with Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Baby Brine Shrimp and Hikari Frozen Daphnia. Feed small amounts 2–3 times daily in a calm environment.
Native to the Araguaia River basin in Brazil — blackwater streams with very soft, acidic water.
Keep in groups of at least 10 — the ember-orange coloration of a large school in a planted aquarium is one of the iconic planted tank displays. Compatible with other nano species: CPDs, small rasboras, Sparkling Gouramis.
The Ember Tetra is the quintessential nano planted tank fish — vivid ember coloration, tiny size, and peaceful temperament. Named for a remarkable woman in the history of the hobby.
Care & Ideal Parameters
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Temperament | Peaceful — schooling community |
| Typical Adult Size | 0.9 inches (2.3 cm) |
| Min. Group Size | 10 minimum — larger groups preferred |
| Ideal Temp | 73–84°F (23–29°C) |
| Ideal pH | 5.0–7.0 |
| Ideal GH | 1–10 dGH |
| Ideal KH | 0–4 dKH |
| Staple Food | Hikari Micro Pellets (crushed/soaked); Sera Vipan Baby |
| Treat / Supplement | Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Baby Brine Shrimp; Hikari Frozen Daphnia |
| Origin | Araguaia River basin, Brazil |
| Notes | Named for Amanda Bleher, mother of Heiko Bleher. Vivid ember-orange coloration — iconic planted tank nano fish. Described 1977 by Géry and Junk. Blackwater specialist. |
