柠檬灯 · Lemon Tetra

Overview

Lemon tetras (Hyphessobrycon pulchripinnis) combine a greenish-yellow body with contrasting fin markings. They are peaceful, commercially bred fishes, with an albino form also available. Displays between males add interest to a well-sized group.

Distribution & habitat

Wild records attributed to the species come from Brazil, chiefly the Tapajós system. Fish matching the familiar aquarium form have also been photographed in the lower Xingu. However, the original description used aquarium specimens of uncertain origin, and the orange-red Tapajós form may represent a different species. These records cannot simply be combined into a settled range.

Small tributaries, rivers, oxbows, and flooded forest are thought to be more typical habitats than main river channels.

Aquarium setup

Provide a footprint of roughly 80 × 30 cm or more. Sand with roots and branches, or dense planting, works well. Dried leaves offer additional shelter and foster microorganisms that supplement the food available to adults and fry.

Diet & feeding

Wild fish probably consume small invertebrates, crustaceans, algae, and fallen fruit. Combine dried foods with suitably sized live or frozen foods, including bloodworms, mosquito larvae, and water fleas, to support condition and coloration.

Behaviour & compatibility

Peaceful companions of comparable size, small catfishes, and appropriate nonpredatory cichlids are suitable choices. Keep at least eight to ten of both sexes. Males form temporary dominance relationships and display to competitors and females, producing more interesting behavior in a substantial group.

Sexual dimorphism

Adult males tend to be slightly smaller and slimmer, with stronger dorsal and anal fin colors. Females are deeper and fuller-bodied.

Breeding

Eggs are scattered without parental care, and a mature aquarium may occasionally produce surviving fry. For more controlled breeding, use a dim tank with established water, gentle aeration, and mesh, marbles, fine plants, or spawning mops that protect eggs from adults.

Slightly acidic to neutral water toward the warmer end of the suitable range is recommended. Introduce a conditioned pair or one or two males with several females; eggs often appear by the next morning. Begin fry on infusoria or very fine prepared food, progressing to brine shrimp nauplii and microworms as they grow.

Notes

The orange-red form differs in eye and fin colors and male dorsal fin extension, although intermediate-looking fish also occur. Trade labels implying a Bolivian origin should not be taken as locality evidence.