Ember Tetra
The Tiny Fiery Gem
Ember Tetras are diminutive fish named for their brilliant orange-red coloration that glows like embers in an aquarium. Despite their tiny size, these peaceful schooling fish bring vibrant color and constant gentle activity to planted tanks.
Why Ember Tetras Are Perfect for First-Time Owners
Brilliant Coloration
Intense orange-red bodies create stunning contrast against plants and dark substrate.
Nano Perfect
Keep a whole school in just 10 gallons. Perfect for desktop tanks and apartments.
Hardy & Adaptable
Tolerate a range of conditions. More robust than many tiny fish species.
Peaceful Community
Completely non-aggressive. Safe with all peaceful tank mates, plants, and shrimp.
Pros
- Brilliant orange-red coloration creates stunning visual impact
- Tiny size allows large schools in small aquariums
- Peaceful nature suits any community tank
- Hardy and adaptable
- Active swimmers providing constant movement
Cons
- Very small size requires care in tank mate selection
- Must be kept in groups of 8+
- May be outcompeted for food
- Shorter lifespan
- Color intensity varies with diet
Care Requirements
What you need to know to keep your Ember Tetra healthy and happy
Exercise
15 minutes daily
Thrive in 10+ gallon tanks with heavy planting. Open swimming areas. Gentle water flow. Secure lid.
Grooming
Weekly partial water changes
Perform 25% water changes weekly. Maintain temperature 68-82F. Keep pH 5.5-7.5.
Nutrition
Feed micro pellets or crushed flakes 2-3 times daily. Supplement with baby brine shrimp weekly.
Training Timeline
Acclimation Period
Float sealed bag 15 minutes. Add tank water gradually over 30 minutes. Release school together.
School Settling
Begin feeding micro foods. School should stay together more confidently.
Color Development
School should display coordinated swimming. Color intensifying with proper diet.
Full Establishment
Fully acclimated displaying best colors. Maintain stable water conditions.
Health Information
Common health concerns and prevention tips for Ember Tetra
Common Health Issues
- Ich (white spot)
- Fin rot
- Stress from inadequate schooling
- Malnutrition
- Bacterial infections
Prevention Tips
- Always keep in groups of 8+
- Provide appropriately sized food
- Maintain stable parameters
- Avoid large fish
- Quarantine new fish
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