Rosy Tetra Hyphessobrycon Rosaceus 2cm

Overview

The Rosy Tetra is a gentle characin with a translucent rose-pink body, red fins and a white-tipped, black-edged dorsal fin that males hold high like a flag. It comes from tannin-stained forest tributaries in Guyana, Suriname and northern Brazil. It suits quiet, well-planted community tanks and beginners looking for colour without aggression.

• Adult Size: Around 4 cm (1.6 in)
• Lifespan: 3–5 years

Origin

• Native to: Essequibo, Corantijn and Suriname rivers; Guyana, Suriname, Brazil
• Habitat: Sluggish, acidic, tannin-stained forest tributaries

Feeding

• Diet: Omnivorous, favouring small invertebrates
• Preferred Foods: Micro granules, flake, daphnia, brine shrimp, bloodworm, cyclops
• Feeding Habits: Small feeds twice daily, only what is eaten in two minutes; live or frozen food deepens colour

Tank Mates

• Best with: Other small tetras, corydoras, pencilfish, apistogramma, otocinclus, dwarf rasboras
• Avoid: Large, boisterous or fin-nipping species such as tiger barbs

Aggression & Behaviour

• Temperament: Very peaceful
• Territoriality: None; males display to each other harmlessly over plants

Experience Level

• Difficulty: Beginner
• Challenges: Colours fade in bright light or hard water; shy when kept singly

Water Parameters

• Water Type: Freshwater, soft and acidic
• Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
• pH: 5.5–7.5
• Hardness: 1–12 dGH
• Flow: Slow
• Tank Size: Minimum 70 litres for a group of six to ten

Final Notes

Keep in a group of at least six, preferably ten, so the fish feel secure and males show their extended dorsal and anal fins. Males are larger and more colourful than the rounder, plainer females. Egg-scattering spawns occur among fine-leaved plants and are easy to achieve in soft water. Dim lighting, dark substrate, driftwood and dried leaves make the pink and red tones stand out beautifully.