Red Blue Colombian Tetra - (No Online Purchases)

Name: Red Blue Colombian Tetra / Colombian Tetra

Scientific Name: Hyphessobrycon columbianus

Description: An attractive, deep-bodied tetra with shimmering silver-blue colouring and contrasting red fins. The blue sheen becomes particularly striking under aquarium lighting. Active and confident, these shoaling fish make a colourful addition to a suitably stocked community aquarium.

Origin: South America; the Río Acandí drainage in northern Colombia.

pH: Approximately 6.0–7.5.

Temperature: Around 22–28°C.

Adult Size: Approximately 6–7 cm.

Lifespan: Approximately 3–5 years with good care.

Food: Omnivorous. Feed quality tropical flakes or small pellets, supplemented with frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia and bloodworms. Include some vegetable-based food for variety.

Compatibility: Best kept with similarly sized, active community fish and peaceful bottom dwellers such as Corydoras. Keep in groups of at least eight, preferably ten or more, to encourage natural behaviour and reduce fin-nipping. Avoid timid, slow-moving or long-finned fish such as bettas and fancy guppies.

Habitat: Provide an established freshwater aquarium with planted edges, driftwood and plenty of open swimming space. Floating plants can provide shaded areas and help show their colours. Maintain effective filtration, gentle to moderate water movement and regular water changes.