Serpae Tetra

Common & Latin Name: Serpae Tetra (Hyphessobrycon eques)

Care level: Easy
Max Size: 4cm
Diet: Omnivore
Temp: 22-26°C
PH: 6.0-7.5
Purchase size: 3-3.5cm

The Serpae Tetra is a medium sized Tetra that has a widespread habitat. It is a shoaling species that should be kept in a group of 6 or more specimens, though higher numbers tend to be easier to keep. This is because they are somewhat similar to Tiger Barbs in behaviour and tend to have a complex hierarchy within their own society. Keeping them in smaller numbers can lead to their attentions being turned to other fish, which will lead to the other fish being harassed. These fish have a very unusual swimming style as they like to rely on short, sporadic bursts of movement, rather than swimming continuously for longer distances. This does look odd at first, but keepers shouldn't be alarmed as it's completely normal behaviour for this fish.

The Aquarium should be of a reasonable size and furnished with bogwood and rocks, as well as plants to provide shelter and enrichment for these active fish. The water should be soft and neutral to acidic with a moderate flow. Tank mates should be chosen carefully as they need to be quite robust and not so easily spooked by the activity of the Serpae. Long finned fish should be avoided altogether as the these fish are known for being nippy.

Food can be offered in the form of flakes, pellets and fresh or frozen fish foods, such as brine shrimp, mysis, bloodworm and daphnia.

If you have any questions about keeping this fish, please contact us and a member of our friendly store team will be more than happy to answer all of your questions

Why not check out our Instagram for the latest news on our products and livestock!