Kitty Tetra Care Guide
Hyphessobrycon heliacus (Kitty Tetra) is a tiny peaceful characin from the Teles Pires River in the upper Tapajos basin of Brazil, kept in soft acidic water.
Overview
Hyphessobrycon heliacus, the Kitty Tetra, is a tiny characin of the family Characidae. The body displays golden coloration with distinctive transverse chevron-shaped bars along the horizontal midline, and mature males have elongated, filamentous dorsal and pelvic fins.
Taxonomy
- Family: Characidae
- Genus: Hyphessobrycon
- Scientific name: Hyphessobrycon heliacus
Habitat
According to FishBase the species is found in the Teles Pires River in the upper Tapajos basin, Brazil. It was collected only in lentic marginal portions of the stream, over muddy bottom with plenty of submersed vegetation, at depths of 0-2 m.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 40 L
- Temperature: 22-26 °C (72-79 °F)
- pH: 5.5-7.0
- GH: 1-8 °dGH
- School size: 8 or more individuals
- Adult size: up to about 2.8 cm SL
- Lifespan: about 3-5 years
Soft, acidic water with subdued lighting and planted cover suits this very small species.
Diet
It is an omnivore. In the aquarium small dried, live and frozen foods are appropriate, offered twice daily.
Compatibility
A peaceful, small schooling fish best kept with other gentle nano species. Apistogramma, pencilfish and pygmy corydoras make good companions, while aggressive species should be avoided.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern, assessed in 2018.