Lemon Tetra (Hyphessobrycon robertsi) – 2.5–3 inches

🐠 Species Overview

The Lemon Tetra (Hyphessobrycon robertsi) is a small, peaceful freshwater fish native to the Rio Tapajós basin in Brazil. It is prized for its bright yellow body with a hint of metallic sheen and distinctive black dorsal fin edge. Lemon Tetras are schooling fish that show their best colors and behavior when kept in groups of 6 or more.

🏡 Aquarium Setup & Care Instructions

Tank Size & Environment

• Minimum Tank Size: 15–20 gallons (57–75 liters) for a small school.

• Substrate: Fine gravel or sand to replicate natural riverbeds.

• Decor: Heavily planted aquariums with driftwood, rocks, and floating plants provide shelter and low-light conditions to enhance colors.

• Water Parameters: Temperature 72–79°F (22–26°C), pH 6.0–7.5, soft to moderately hard water.

• Filtration: Gentle filtration with stable water conditions; sensitive to ammonia and nitrite spikes.

Behavior & Tankmates

• Peaceful and social; best kept in schools of at least 6.

• Compatible with other small, non-aggressive fish such as Neon Tetras, Rummy Nose Tetras, Cardinal Tetras, and Corydoras species.

Diet

• Omnivorous; offer high-quality flake or micro-pellet foods, as well as live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms.