Socolof's Tetra Care Guide
Hyphessobrycon socolofi is a peaceful characin from the rio Negro basin in Brazil, resembling a smaller bleeding heart tetra and suited to soft, acidic tanks.
Overview
Hyphessobrycon socolofi is a peaceful characin of the family Characidae that resembles a smaller bleeding heart tetra, with a faint red blotch on the flank. It is sometimes treated under the name Megalamphodus socolofi.
Taxonomy
- Family: Characidae
- Genus: Hyphessobrycon
- Scientific name: Hyphessobrycon socolofi
Habitat
According to Seriously Fish the species is known from the rio Negro basin in Amazonas state, Brazil, and the rio Nhamunda tributary, occurring in affluents including the rios Branco, Padauari and Marauia. It is a tropical freshwater fish.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 80 L
- Temperature: 22-28 °C (72-82 °F)
- pH: 5.5-7.0
- GH: 1-10 °dGH
- School size: 6 or more individuals
- Adult size: up to about 5.6 cm SL
- Lifespan: about 4-6 years
Dim lighting and leaf litter reflect its natural blackwater environment; Seriously Fish recommends groups of 8-10 specimens.
Diet
It is an opportunistic omnivore; wild specimens were found to consume mostly fruit remains with a small fraction of aquatic insects. In the aquarium it accepts small live and frozen foods such as bloodworm, Daphnia and Artemia alongside dried foods.
Compatibility
Generally peaceful, though adult males can be territorial to an extent. Corydoras, Apistogramma and hatchetfish make good companions, while fin nippers and aggressive cichlids should be avoided.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern, assessed in 2018.