Serpae Tetra

The Serpae Tetra is a beautiful, vibrant red tetra that adds brilliant color to community aquariums. Known for their striking red-orange bodies with black dorsal fins, these active fish are popular among aquarists. However, they have a reputation for fin-nipping behavior, especially when kept in small groups or with slow-moving, long-finned tank mates. They are best kept in schools of 8 or more to minimize aggression and display their best colors.

Care Requirements

Tank Setup

Serpae Tetras need adequate swimming space and some hiding spots.

Essential Setup:

• 20+ gallons for proper schooling
• Plants for security
• Open swimming space
• Moderate filtration

Water Quality

• Temperature: 72-79°F (22-26°C)
• pH: 5.5-7.8
• Water Hardness: Soft to moderate (3-15 dGH)
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: <20 ppm

Feeding

Omnivores that accept most foods:

• Quality flakes or small pellets
• Frozen foods: brine shrimp, daphnia
• Live foods occasionally

Behavior & Compatibility

Can be nippy if not kept properly:

• Minimum school: 8+ individuals
• Nipping reduced: In larger schools
• Avoid: Long-finned fish like Bettas, Angelfish

Good Tank Mates:

• Other fast tetras
• Danios
• Corydoras
• Dwarf Gourami

Color Enhancement

• Dark substrate enhances red coloration
• Dimmed lighting brings out best colors
• Schooling makes colors more intense

Breeding

Can be bred in soft water:

• Use spawning mop or plants
• Remove adults after eggs laid
• Feed fry infusoria