Silvertip Tetra

The silvertip tetra is recognized by its copper-gold body and the bright white spots on the tips of its dorsal, anal and tail fins. There is a dark band on the tail base. Unlike most tetras it has no adipose fin; this is the distinguishing trait of the genus Hasemania. Males are distinctly copper-colored, while females are more yellowish.

It is a hardy, inexpensive and lively species. However, because of its active nature and its tendency to nip fins in a small group, tankmates should be chosen with care.

It lives along the planted banks of small streams and tributaries in the São Francisco River basin in eastern Brazil.

• Volume: at least 60 liters for a school of 8–12.
• Water: 23–27°C, pH 6–8; it adapts easily to soft to moderately hard water.
• Decor: a dark substrate and a planted background make the white fin tips stand out. Leave open swimming space.
• Maintenance: a 25% water change every week; moderate flow.

Omnivorous with a big appetite. Flakes, small granules, frozen brine shrimp, daphnia and bloodworms are suitable. Feed 1–2 meals a day, only as much as is eaten within a few minutes. Because it is very quick at feeding time, make sure the slower species in the tank are also getting fed.

A very active species that chases constantly within the school. In a large group this behavior stays within the school, but in a small group it may nip the fins of slow, long-finned species. It usually leaves adult shrimp alone.

Good companions: active tetras, rasboras, danios, corydoras, otocinclus, robust livebearers such as platies and mollies.

Avoid: slow, long-finned species such as bettas, fancy guppies, angelfish and dwarf gouramis.

At least 8, ideally 12 or more individuals are recommended. In a large school the fish keep each other busy and bother other species less. The sex ratio does not matter; the males' copper color stands out within the group. When kept in small numbers it becomes both shy and more bothersome to other fish, so setting up a large school from the start is the best solution.

It is an egg scatterer and breeds easily in the aquarium. A separate tank is prepared with fine-leaved plants or a spawning mop; the parents are removed after spawning. The fry become free-swimming within a few days and are fed infusoria, then newly hatched brine shrimp.

• Hardiness: it is resistant to disease.
• White spot (ich): may appear after sudden temperature changes.
• Fin injuries: small wounds may occur from chasing within the school; clean water speeds healing.
• Quarantine: keeping new fish separate for 2 weeks protects the school.

Males are a distinct copper-gold color and slimmer. Females are paler, with yellowish-silver tones and a plumper belly.