Tangerine Tetra - Hyphessobrycon krenakore : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Tangerine Tetra (Hyphessobrycon krenakore), a relatively recent addition to the aquarium hobby, is a small, strikingly coloured freshwater fish native to South America. Best known for its dynamic behaviour, this small yet visually striking fish's peaceful nature makes it an ideal candidate for community tanks. Tangerine Tetras are schooling fish, so ideally, you should keep them in groups of 6, preferably more.
Selecting ideal tankmates for Tangerine Tetras requires consideration of their peaceful nature and specific habitat needs. Ideal companions are those that share similar water parameter requirements and exhibit non-aggressive behaviours. Small to medium-sized Tetras, such as Neon Tetras or Cardinal Tetras, are excellent choices, as they share a similar temperament and environmental preferences. Other suitable tankmates include Dwarf Cichlids like Apistogrammas, which are also peaceful and thrive in similar water conditions. Small Barbs and Rasboras can also coexist harmoniously with these fish, provided they are not overly boisterous.
It's advisable to avoid larger, more aggressive species or fin-nippers that might stress or harm these relatively timid characins. Invertebrates such as shrimps and snails can also be good companions, as they do not compete directly with these Tetras for space or food. When selecting tankmates, ensuring that the aquarium provides enough space and hiding spots for all inhabitants to coexist comfortably is crucial.
Creating an ideal aquarium environment for Tangerine Tetras requires careful attention to replicate their natural habitat conditions. These fish thrive in a tank that mimics the soft, acidic waters of their native South American streams. The use of a soft substrate, such as fine sand, is recommended to mirror the riverbeds they are accustomed to, along with the addition of driftwood and leaf litter to provide natural hiding spots and maintain water quality. Dense vegetation is crucial not only for maintaining water parameters but also for providing shelter and a sense of security, encouraging natural behaviours. Dim lighting, which emulates the shaded conditions of their natural environment under the canopy of the South American rainforests, further enhances their comfort.
To ensure their well-being, the tank should also have a gentle water flow and be equipped with efficient filtration to keep the water clean and well-oxygenated. Regular maintenance, including partial water changes, is essential to prevent the buildup of harmful toxins. An environment that carefully considers these factors will not only promote the health and longevity of these fish but also provide a setting in which their vibrant colours and lively behaviour can be fully appreciated.
Tangerine Tetras are known for their vibrant colouration and distinct physical features. It typically exhibits a slender body with a predominantly silver or iridescent hue, accented by striking red or orange markings on its fins and body. These Tetras also have black eyes and a small black spot on their caudal fin.
Tangerine Tetra Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Tangerine Tetras exhibit notable sexual dimorphism, making the differentiation between males and females visually discernible. Males of this species are typically more vibrantly coloured, displaying richer and more intense hues in comparison to their female counterparts. This enhanced colouration is particularly evident during spawning periods, where males often exhibit a brighter red or orange on their fins and body to attract females. In addition to colour differences, females generally have a more robust and fuller-bodied appearance, especially when gravid, as their bodies are adapted for egg carrying. This fuller body shape in females can be contrasted with the more streamlined and slender form of males.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Hyphessobrycon krenakore |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 2016 |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Characiformes |
| Family | Characidae |
| Genus | Hyphessobrycon |
| Origins | Brazil |
| Max Size | 4 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Middle - Top |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | Yes |
| Best kept as | Groups 6+ |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg-Scatterer |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 5 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 5.0 - 7.5 |
| GH | 5 - 20 |
| ℉ | 71 - 82 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 22 - 28 |
Natural Habitat
The Tangerine Tetra is endemic to the Curuá River, an upper tributary of the Xingu River in Brazil, South America. These Tetras inhabit the clear, slow-moving streams and rivers, particularly in densely vegetated regions with soft, sandy bottoms. Their natural waters are often shaded by dense canopy cover, resulting in a dimly lit environment with abundant leaf litter and driftwood that offers plenty of hiding places.
Breeding
Breeding Tangerine Tetras requires understanding their specific environmental and behavioural needs. Like many characins, this species can be bred in captivity, though the process demands attention to detail and a controlled environment.
A dedicated breeding tank is recommended to provide the best conditions for spawning and to protect eggs and fry. This tank should be equipped with soft, acidic water, mirroring their natural habitat. A pH between 6.0 and 7.0 and a temperature around 76°F (24°C) are ideal. Dim lighting and the presence of fine-leaved plants or spawning mops can facilitate the egg-laying process.
Prior to breeding, the adults should be conditioned with high-quality, varied diets, including live and frozen foods. This conditioning helps improve the fish's health and increase the likelihood of successful spawning. The breeding process typically commences with increased activity, especially from the males. Males, displaying brighter colours, court the females through a series of displays and chasing behaviours.
The female scatters her eggs among the plants or substrate during spawning. These eggs are then fertilized externally by the male. The number of eggs produced can vary but is generally in the dozens. After spawning, it is advisable to remove the adult fish from the breeding tank to prevent them from eating the eggs or fry. The eggs usually hatch within a day or two, depending on the temperature.
The fry initially feeds on their yolk sac and then can be fed with infusoria or finely crushed flake food. As they grow, they can be introduced to larger foods like microworms or baby brine shrimp. The fry is sensitive to water quality, so regular, gentle water changes and careful monitoring of water parameters are crucial.
Diet & Feeding
The dietary habits of Tangerine Tetras reflect their omnivorous nature and adaptability in both natural and captive environments. In the wild, their diet predominantly consists of small invertebrates, insect larvae, and plant matter, which they forage from the substrate and vegetation. This natural diet underlines their role in the ecosystem as both predators and scavengers.
In captivity, it is crucial to replicate this varied diet to maintain their health and vibrant colouration. A balanced diet for Hyphessobrycon krenakore in an aquarium setting should include high-quality flake food or micro pellets as a staple, supplemented regularly with live or frozen foods such as daphnia, bloodworms, and brine shrimp. These protein-rich foods not only cater to their nutritional needs but also stimulate natural foraging behaviours.
Additionally, offering vegetable matter or algae-based foods can provide necessary nutrients and mimic their natural consumption of plant materials. Consistent feeding of a diverse diet is key to ensuring the overall well-being, longevity, and display of natural behaviours in these Tetras.
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