Serpae Tetra Species Profile: Look, Care, Size & All | 2024

Serpae Tetras are brightly colored fish that are native to South America. They are a popular choice for both beginner and experienced aquarists alike. They are schooling fish. They are relatively peaceful fish, and they can be housed with other community fish.

They require a moderate amount of care and can be kept in various water conditions. They are a beautiful addition to any aquarium and a great addition to any community tank.

In this guide, we will discuss the care and keeping of Serpae Tetras. We will cover everything from their dietary needs to their tank requirements. So, if you are considering adding a few Serpae Tetras to your aquarium, please read on.

Serpae Tetra: Species Summary

Scientific name:	Hyphessobrycon serpae
Common name:	Serpae Tetra
Family:	Characidae
Origin:	South America
Behavior:	Schooling
Size:	Around 1.75 inches
Lifespan:	Between 5 and 7 years (in captivity)
Temperament:	Peaceful
Tank size:	20 gallons or larger
Temperature range:	72 to 79 degrees Fahrenheit
pH range:	5.0 to 7.8
Water Hardness:	Soft to medium
Water Type:	Freshwater
Activity level:	Moderate
Compatibility:	Usually peaceful, can be housed with other community fish
Breeding:	Egg scatterers
Tank mates:	Peaceful community fish
Care level:	moderate
Diet:	Omnivorous, prefers live foods but will eat flake food

Colorful and incredibly active, the Serpae Tetra is a popular choice for aquarists of all experience levels. Native to South America, these Fish are schooling fish and prefer to live in groups of six or more.

They will do best in soft to medium water hardness and in freshwater. They are relatively active fish and require moderate levels of activity. They’re often referred to as the “Red Terror Tetra” because of their bright red coloring. They also come in a variety of colors.

Serpae Tetra: Appearance

As mentioned, Serpae Tetras sport some of the most beautiful colors in the fishkeeping hobby. They are typically red, but they can also come in shades of yellow, green, and blue. The base coloration of fish is typically dark green or bluish-gray.

The most distinguishing features of them are their red “fins.” The dorsal, anal, and pelvic fins are all tipped in bright red. They have a sleek body shape with a long anal fin. The dorsal fin is tall and pointed, and the tail fin is forked.

The most visually striking feature of them is their red eyes. Most specimens will have red eyes, but some strains will have black eyes. Some are more olive-brown in color, while others have a deep greenback with a silver sheen. They are one of the most variable tetra species in terms of coloration.

Their scales have a shiny appearance, and they are covered in small black spots. It is worth noting that the red coloration of these fish will fade in lower water temperatures.

The Serpae Tetra has several distinct patterns on its body. The most noticeable is the silver lateral line that runs the length of their body. They also have a black spot at the base of their tail and another near the base of their dorsal fin.

On the top of the fish, there is a dark green or bluish-gray area that starts just behind the head and goes all the way to its tail. This coloration is typically more pronounced on fish that live in darker water. The underside of the Serpae Tetra is a light silver or white color.

The interesting thing about them is that they have two different color phases. One is the red phase, where their fins and body are bright red. The other is the green phase, where their fins and body are deep green. It is thought that the green phase is more dominant in females, while males are more likely to be in the red phase.

Serpae Tetra: Size & Growth Rate

The typical Serpae Tetra size, when fully grown, is about 1.75 inches in length. They grow moderately and will reach their full size within two to three years.

These are not large fish. It is important to keep this in mind when selecting a tank size for them. It is possible for larger specimens to bully and harass smaller fish.

Serpae Tetra: Lifespan

The average Serpae Tetra lifespan in captivity is between five and seven years—however, some reports of fish living up to ten years or more.

For this family of fish, that is a relatively long lifespan and something to consider when purchasing.

This can be impacted by a number of things, including the water conditions and the quality of food they are given.

Serpae Tetra: Behavior & Temperament

For the most part, they are peaceful fish that will get along with most other fish. Serpae tetras are active and playful fish that will add excitement to your tank.

They typically have a good temperament and are very peaceful. They will usually get along well with other fish in the tank. However, there may be some occasional squabbles between them.

As mentioned earlier, these are community fish that thrive in groups and should be kept in a school. Series are schooling fish and will do better if kept in groups of 6 or more. They are lively, active fish that like to play. When paired together, the males will establish a dominant hierarchy. Larger groups help make them feel secure and help to reduce stress.

In the wild, they live in small schools and feed on small insects and other invertebrates. By providing a schooling environment in your tank, you can help to replicate their natural habitat. They are very active and playful fish that will add excitement to your tank.

Serpae Tetra: Breeding

Serpae tetras are a good option for a beginner fish keeper looking to breed fish. They are easy to fish to breed and typically have a high success rate.

To breed them, you will need to provide them with a spawning tank. The tank should be large enough for the adults to swim freely and filled with fresh, clean water. The water should be heated to around 80 degrees F, and the pH should be between 6.5 and 7.0.

The tank should also be decorated with some rocks or driftwood to give the fish something to spawn on.

In order to initiate spawning, you will need to raise the temperature of the water to around 85° F. The male and female will then start to court each other. The male will chase the female and nip at her fins. When the female is ready, she will release her eggs, and the male will fertilize them.

The eggs will then hatch within 2-3 days, and the fry will be free-swimming within a week. The fry should be fed a diet of baby brine shrimp or crushed flake food.

Serpae Tetra: Food & Diet

Serpae Tetras are omnivores and will eat a variety of food. They typically like to eat live and frozen food, but they will also eat flake food.

It is important to provide a varied diet for your serpae tetras to ensure that they are getting the nutrients they need.

Some good food options include:

• Live food: Live food is a great option for them. It includes a variety of different food options, such as brine shrimp, blood worms, and Daphnia.
• Frozen food: Frozen food is a great option for them. It includes a variety of different food options, such as brine shrimp and blood worms.
• Flake food: Flake food is a great option for them. It is a convenient and easy-to-use food that they will love.

In the wild, they typically eat invertebrates and small insects. By providing a varied diet in your tank, you can help to replicate their natural diet.

For protein, give them boiled egg whites; for Veggies, a good quality flake food with added vegetable matter.

Serpae Tetra: Diet Foods To Avoid

There are a few things you should avoid feeding your serpae tetras:

• Raw meat: Raw meat is not a good food option for them. It can contain harmful bacteria that can cause disease.
• Sugar: Sugar is not a good food option for them. It can cause health problems and is not nutritionally beneficial.

Serpae Tetra: Feeding Schedule

It is important to establish a regular feeding schedule for your serpae tetras. This will help them to stay healthy and eat a balanced diet.

Generally, you should feed them twice a day. You can either feed them a small amount of food each time or a larger amount one time. It is important not to overfeed them, which can lead to health problems.

It is also important to clean your tank regularly to ensure the water quality remains high and reduces the risk of disease.

Serpae Tetra: Care

Serpae Tetra care is relatively easy, making them a great choice for those new to fishkeeping. They are hardy and can adapt to a variety of water conditions. They require a straightforward diet. And even though they’re active fish, they don’t need much space. They rarely show aggression towards other fish, making them good community fish.

Of course, that doesn’t mean they can’t be kept in a species-only tank. In fact, many people prefer to keep them that way to really showcase their beauty. So here are a few things to remember when caring for Serpae Tetras.

Serpae Tetra: Tank Size

A minimum tank size of 20 gallons is recommended for a school of Serpae Tetras. This will give them enough space to swim and explore. However, if you want to keep other fish with them, you will need a larger tank.

It is possible for larger specimens to bully and harass smaller fish. So, if you’re housing them with other species, choose tankmates of a similar size.

Serpae Tetra: Water Parameters

As we mentioned earlier, Serpae Tetras are hardy fish and can adapt to various water conditions. However, they do best when kept in water that is on the warmer side. The ideal temperature range is 72-79 degrees Fahrenheit.

Water pH is not as important, and they can tolerate a range of 5.0-7.8. However, it is recommended to keep the pH in the neutral range (7.0).

The hardness of the water is also not critical, and they can thrive in water with a hardness level of up to 15 dGH.

However, the water should be well-oxygenated and have a good filter to keep it clean. The aquarium water should be changed weekly or every other week to keep it healthy for the fish.

Filtration

When choosing a filter for your Serpae Tetra tank, you want one that is high-quality and can handle a large amount of waste. A good filter will help keep the water clean and healthy for your fish. It is also important to change the filter media regularly to keep it functioning properly.

Some recommended filters for Serpae Tetra tanks are:

• Canister filters: These filters are excellent at removing debris and waste from the aquarium. They also have a large media capacity, making them a good choice for high-waste tanks.
• Sponge filters: Sponge filters are a good choice for small aquariums. They are simple to use and do not require a lot of maintenance.
• Box filters: Box filters are another option for small aquariums. They are easy to set up and maintain and are a good choice for those who don’t want to deal with the hassle of a canister filter.
• Bio wheels: Bio wheels are not as common as the other filters listed, but they are a good choice for those looking for an efficient filter. They work by spinning the media to create a vortex that draws in debris and waste.

Heating

As we mentioned earlier, Serpae Tetras prefer water that is on the warmer side. The ideal temperature range is 72°-79° Fahrenheit. If your tank is not in this range, you will need to use a heater to keep the water warm.

There are a few different types of heaters available, and you can choose one that best suits your needs.

Some popular heater choices are:

• Glass heater: A glass heater is a good choice for those looking for a reliable and affordable heater. They are easy to use and have a wide temperature range.
• Heating cables: Heating cables are a good choice for those with a large tank. They can heat the water evenly and are very effective at keeping the temperature stable.
• Submersible heaters: Submersible heaters are a popular choice because they are easy to use and install. They also have a wide temperature range, making them a good option for those who want to keep their tank at a specific temperature.

Lighting

Serpae Tetras do not require a lot of lighting and can thrive in low-light conditions. However, if you want to add extra decoration to your tank, you can use some basic aquarium lights.

There are a few different types of aquarium lights available, and you can choose one that best suits your needs.

Some popular choices are:

• Incandescent light bulbs: Incandescent light bulbs are a popular choice for those who want a basic light for their tank. They are affordable and easy to use.
• Fluorescent light tubes: Fluorescent light tubes are a good choice for those who want more lighting for their tank. They come in a variety of different colors and sizes, making them a versatile option.
• LED lights: LED lights are a popular choice for those who want energy-efficient lighting for their tank. They come in various colors and sizes, making them a versatile option.

Co2 Systems

If you want to add Co2 to your tank, there are a few different systems you can choose from.

Some popular choices are:

• Pressurized Co2 systems: Pressurized Co2 systems are a popular choice because they are easy to use and install. They also provide a high level of Co2, making them a good choice for those who want to add Co2 to their tank.
• Inline Co2 systems: Inline Co2 systems are a good choice for those who want to add Co2 to their tank without having to install a new system.
• Reactor Co2 systems: Reactor Co2 systems are a good choice for those who want to add Co2 to their tank without having to install a new system. They are easy to use and can be attached to most filters.

Substrate

Serpae Tetras do not require a lot of substrates and can thrive in tanks with a bare bottom. However, if you want to add extra decoration to your tank, you can use some basic aquarium substrate.

There are a few different types of aquarium substrate available, and you can choose one that best suits your needs.

Some popular choices are:

• Gravel: Gravel is a popular choice for those who want a basic substrate for their tank. It is affordable and easy to use.
• Sand: Sand is a popular choice for those who want a more natural look for their tank. It is also easy to use and can be cleaned easily.

Plants

If you want to add plants to your tank, there are a few different types you can choose from.

Some popular choices are:

• Anubias: Anubias is a good choice for those who want to add plants to their tank but do not have much experience.
• Java moss: Java moss is a good choice for those who want to add plants to their tank but do not have much experience. It is easy to care for.
• Crypts: Crypts are a good choice for those who want to add plants to their tank but do not have much experience. They are easy to care for and can be grown in various conditions.

Decorations

If you want to add decorations to your tank, there are a few different types you can choose from.

Some popular choices are:

• Ornaments: Ornaments are a popular choice for those who want to add decorations to their tank. They come in various shapes and sizes, making them a versatile option.
• Driftwood: Driftwood is a popular choice for those who want to add decorations to their tank and provide a place for their fish to hide. It comes in various shapes and sizes, making it a versatile option.

Water conditioners

If you want to add water conditioners to your tank, there are a few different types you can choose from.

Some popular choices are:

• Water conditioners: Water conditioners are a popular choice for those who want to add a buffer to their tank and remove harmful chemicals.
• Aquarium salt: Aquarium salt is a popular choice for those who want to add a buffer to their tank and remove harmful chemicals. It is also beneficial for fish that are sick or have been injured.
• Stress coat: Stress coat is a popular choice for those who want to add a buffer to their tank and remove harmful chemicals. It also helps to reduce stress in fish.

Serpae Tetra: Water Changes

Water changes are an important part of fishkeeping. They help to remove harmful chemicals and keep your tank healthy.

There are a few different ways you can make water changes:

• Manual water changes: Manual water changes are a popular choice for those who want to be more involved in their tank. They involve removing water from the tank and replacing it with fresh water.
• Siphoning: Siphoning is a popular choice for those who want to be more involved in their tank. It involves removing water from the tank and replacing it with fresh water. It is easy to do and can be done with various tools.

Serpae Tetra: Cleaning The Tank

Cleaning the tank is an important part of fishkeeping. It helps to keep your tank healthy and looking its best.

There are a few different ways you can clean your tank:

• Basking: Basking is a popular way to clean your tank. It involves using a net to remove debris from the top of the water. The process is simple and can be done easily.
• Scraping: Scraping is a popular way to clean your tank. It involves using a scraper to remove algae from the sides of the tank.
• Sucking: Sucking is a popular way to clean your tank. It involves using a vacuum to remove debris from the bottom of the tank.

Serpae Tetra: Cleaning The Filter

Cleaning the filter is an important part of fishkeeping. It helps to keep your tank healthy and looking its best.

There are a few different ways you can clean your filter:

• Rinsing is a popular way to clean your filter. It involves removing the filter media from the filter and running water through it.
• Soaking is a popular way to clean your filter. It involves removing the filter media from the filter and placing it in a container of water.

Serpae Tetra: Testing The Water

Testing the water is an important part of fishkeeping. It helps ensure your tank is healthy and free from harmful chemicals.

There are a few different ways you can test the water:

• Testing kit: Testing kits are a popular way to test the water. They come in various shapes and sizes, making them a versatile option.
• Drops: Drops are a popular way to test the water. They come in various shapes and sizes, making them a versatile option.

Serpae Tetra: Common Possible Diseases

There are a few common diseases that can affect serpae tetras:

• Ich: Ich is a popular disease that can affect serpae tetras. It is a parasitic infection that can cause fish to itch and scratch.
• Fin rot: Fin rot is a popular disease that can affect serpae tetras. It is a bacterial infection that can cause fish to lose their fins.
• Skin flukes: Skin flukes are a popular disease that can affect serpae tetras. It is a parasitic infection that can cause fish to lose their scales.
• Fungal infections: Fungal infections are a popular disease that can affect serpae tetras. They are fungal infections that can cause fish to lose their fins and scales.

 You can easily avoid these diseases by keeping your tank clean and free from harmful chemicals. Most diseases are a result of poor water quality.

If you think your fish may be sick, it is important to take them to a veterinarian immediately.

Serpae Tetra: Preventing Disease

There are a few things you can do to help prevent disease in your serpae tetras:

• Keep your tank clean and free from harmful chemicals: This will help to keep your tank healthy and reduce the risk of disease.
• Quarantine new fish: Quarantining new fish is a popular way to help prevent the spread of diseases. It involves keeping new fish in a separate tank until they have been cleared of diseases.
• Treat sick fish: Treating sick fish is an important way to help prevent the spread of disease. It involves providing medication to fish that are affected by the disease.

With regular care and monitoring, you can help to prevent the spread of disease in your serpae tetras.

Serpae Tetra: Treatment & Medications Of Diseases

There are a few popular treatments and medications for diseases:

• Salt: Salt is a popular treatment for ich. It helps to kill the parasite that causes the infection.
• Formalin: Formaldehyde is a popular medication for ich. It helps to kill the parasite that causes the infection.
• Benzalkonium chloride: Benzalkonium chloride is a popular medication for ich. It helps to kill the parasite that causes the infection.
• Ketoconazole: Ketoconazole is a popular medication for fungal infections. It helps to kill the fungus that causes the infection.
• Nitrofurazone: Nitrofurazone is a popular medication for bacterial infections. It helps to kill the bacteria that cause the infection.

It’s important to consult with your veterinarian to find the best treatment and medication for your fish.

Serpae Tetra: Tank Mates

Serpae Tetras are peaceful and timid fish that will get along with most other fish. They are a great option for any community tank.

Some good tank mates for them include:

• Other tetras: Other tetra fish make a great tank mate for serpaes. Some good options include neon tetras, glowlight tetras, and cardinal tetras.
• Swordtail Fish: Swordtail fish is a good option for a tank mate. They are active and playful and will add excitement to your tank.
• Twig Catfish: Twig catfish are a good option for a tank mate for them. They are small, peaceful fish that will help to keep the bottom of the tank clean.
• Cory Catfish: Cory catfish are a great tank mate for serpaes. They are bottom-dwelling fish that will help to keep the tank clean.
• Bristlenose Pleco: Bristlenose plecos are a good option for a tank mate for serpaes. They are peaceful and algae-eating fish that will help to keep your tank clean.
• Bolivian Ram Cichlid: A Bolivian ram cichlid is a great option for a tank mate. They are peaceful fish that will get along well with serpaes.
• Pictus Catfish: Pictus catfish are schooling fish that make a great tank mate for serpaes. They are peaceful and timid fish that will get along well with most other fish.
• Danios: Danios are a good option for a tank mate for serpaes. They are active fish that will add excitement to the tank.

Keep an eye on the group dynamics when adding new fish to the tank. Be sure to add fish of a similar size and temperament to help reduce aggression. Aside from that, serpaes make a great tank mate for most other fish.

Some bad tank mates for serpaes include:

• Angelfish
• Goldfish
• Oscars
• Siamese Fighting Fish

Advantages Of Having Serpae Tetra In Your Tank

The first advantage of having serpae tetras in your tank is that they are very active and playful fish. They will add excitement to your tank and keep you entertained for hours.

The second advantage is that they are peaceful and timid fish. They will get along with most other fish and make a great addition to any community tank.

The third advantage is that they are a good option for a beginner fishkeeper looking to breed fish. They are easy to fish to breed and typically have a high success rate.

Overall, they make a great addition to any tank and provide many advantages for the fish keeper.

Disadvantages Of Having Serpae Tetra In Your Tank

The only disadvantage of having serpae tetras in your tank is that they can be aggressive towards other fish. Be sure to add fish of a similar size and temperament to help reduce aggression. Aside from that, serpaes make a great tank mate for most other fish.

Conclusion

As you can see, serpae tetras make a great addition to any tank and provide many advantages for the fish keeper. If you are looking for an active, playful fish that will get along with most other fish, then they are a perfect choice for you.

I hope this article has been helpful and informative. If you have any questions or comments, please leave them in the section below. Thanks for reading!