Hyphessobrycon myrmex, commonly known as the Fire Ant Tetra, is an extremely rare and vibrantly colored freshwater fish from the Amazon basin. Its distinct red and silver coloration makes it an eye-catching choice for peaceful community aquariums or biotope setups that aim to replicate its natural habitat. Although it's relatively new to the aquarium trade, this fish has quickly gained popularity due to its beauty and compatibility with other small, peaceful species.
Key Features:
- Common Name: Fire Ant Tetra
- Scientific Name: Hyphessobrycon myrmex
- Family: Characidae
- Origin: Native to the Amazon basin in South America, where it inhabits slow-moving rivers, streams, and tributaries.
Appearance:
- Size: Typically, the Fire Ant Tetra grows up to 1.5 inches (around 4 cm), making it a small, manageable fish for smaller tanks.
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Color:
- The body is a vibrant red with a contrasting silvery-white belly.
- They also have a faint, dark horizontal stripe that runs along the body.
- The fins are mostly clear or slightly red, with some specimens displaying a dark mark on the base of the dorsal fin.
- Body Shape: This tetra has a streamlined body, slightly more elongated than some other tetras, with the classic sleek shape typical of the Hyphessobrycon genus.
Behavior and Temperament:
- Schooling Fish: Fire Ant Tetras are peaceful, active fish that should be kept in groups of 6 or more. When kept in larger schools, they display more vibrant colors and natural schooling behavior.
- Temperament: They are generally non-aggressive and can be kept with other small, peaceful fish. Due to their size and gentle nature, they do best with similarly sized species.
Aquarium Care:
- Tank Size: A minimum of 15-20 gallons is recommended for a small group of Fire Ant Tetras. A larger tank is always beneficial to allow them more swimming space.
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Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 23°C to 27°C (73°F to 81°F)
- pH: 5.5 to 7.0 — Prefers slightly acidic to neutral water conditions.
- Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water is ideal, as they are native to softer, tannin-rich waters.
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Substrate and Decor:
- They thrive in a heavily planted tank with a soft substrate that mimics the riverbeds of the Amazon.
- Leaf litter, driftwood, and rocks can help create a natural environment, as well as low-light conditions or shaded areas that help them feel more secure.
- Filtration: Moderate filtration is recommended to keep the water clean but avoid strong currents, as they prefer gentle, slow-moving water.
