The Hyphessobrycon sp. "Blue Ribbon Tetra" is a captivating and relatively rare species in the aquarium hobby, known for its striking blue and silver coloration. Although still less common than some other tetras, the Blue Ribbon Tetra is gaining attention due to its beautiful color and peaceful nature, which make it a wonderful addition to community tanks or natural-style aquascapes.
Key Features:
- Common Name: Blue Ribbon Tetra
- Scientific Name: Hyphessobrycon sp. "Blue Ribbon"
- Family: Characidae
- Origin: South America, likely the Amazon Basin, though specific distribution information is limited due to its rarity.
Appearance:
- Size: These tetras are small, generally reaching about 1.2 to 1.5 inches (3-4 cm) in length.
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Coloration:
- The Blue Ribbon Tetra is known for its iridescent blue body that shimmers under aquarium lighting.
- The body also has silver highlights along the sides, giving it a metallic sheen.
- Some individuals may show faint pinkish or purple tints near the fins and belly, especially under high-quality lighting.
- Fins: The fins are usually clear to slightly blue, allowing the vibrant body color to be the main focal point.
Behavior and Temperament:
- Schooling Fish: Blue Ribbon Tetras are peaceful, active fish that do best in groups of 6 or more. A larger school will not only help them feel more secure but also bring out their natural schooling behavior and coloration.
- Temperament: They are gentle and non-aggressive, making them suitable for community tanks with other small, peaceful fish. They tend to swim actively in the middle and upper parts of the aquarium.
Aquarium Care:
- Tank Size: A minimum of 15-20 gallons is recommended for a small group of Blue Ribbon Tetras, with more space being beneficial if kept in a larger school.
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Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 22°C to 27°C (72°F to 81°F)
- pH: 5.5 to 7.0 — Prefers slightly acidic to neutral water.
- Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water is ideal, as they are native to soft, acidic waters.