Phoenix Tetra
Phoenix Tetra
Phoenix Tetra (Hemigrammus filamentosus) has a distinctive filamentous extension on the dorsal fin of males — filamentosus meaning 'thread-bearing' — giving adult males an elegant trailing dorsal fin thread that justified the dramatic common name. From the Orinoco drainage.
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 Orinoco drainage in Venezuela and Colombia — soft, slightly acidic streams and rivers.
Keep in groups of at least 8 with both sexes — the filamentous dorsal extension of males is most impressive in competitive display.
An elegant tetra with a distinctive male fin extension — unique among commonly kept Hemigrammus.
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 | Orinoco drainage, Venezuela and Colombia |
| Notes | Filamentosus = thread-bearing. Males have filamentous dorsal fin extension. Orinoco drainage. |
