Von Rio Tetra

Von Rio Tetra

Von Rio Tetra (Hyphessobrycon flammeus) is the same species as the Flame Tetra sold under the trade name 'Von Rio' — 'from Rio' (de Janeiro). Identical in appearance and care: vivid flame-red rear half on silver front, red fins, two dark humeral bars. One of the oldest tetras in the aquarium hobby — first imported from the Rio de Janeiro region in 1920 and formally described by ichthyologist George S. Myers in 1924. Tragically, H. flammeus is now considered endangered in the wild — its native coastal forest habitat around Rio de Janeiro has been almost entirely destroyed by development. No wild fish have been exported for decades, but the species survives entirely through aquarium breeding worldwide. Buying Flame Tetras actively supports the survival of a species that now exists primarily in home aquariums.

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 coastal rivers of Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo states — one of the most industrialized parts of Brazil. Its native rivers flow through urban and agricultural land, and the species has not been confirmed in the wild since the 1970s. All aquarium stock worldwide is captive-bred.

An important behavioral note: Flame Tetras kept in small numbers can become surprisingly aggressive toward tankmates. Keep at least 10 together — in proper groups they direct social behavior inward and are peaceful community fish. Males have a black border on the anal fin and black ventral fin tips; females are slightly deeper-bodied.

Over 100 years in the hobby without a single wild-caught import in decades — surviving purely through the dedication of aquarists worldwide. This endangered species persists entirely because of the aquarium hobby.

Care & Ideal Parameters