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Fish Profiles | Lemon Tetra
Fish Profiles | Lemon Tetra
The lemon tetra (scientific name: Hyphessobrycon pulchripinnis) is a small freshwater fish that can add a delightful splash of color to any aquarium. Native to South America, they are often found in the narrow streams around the Tapajós River basin in Brazil.
Appearance
Lemon tetras have a diamond-shaped body that is semi-transparent with a pearlescent finish. Their caudal fin is transparent with a fine black line around the perimeter. The dorsal and anal fins are where their vibrancy is most noticeable, with splashes of yellow and black.
Behavior
These fish are peaceful and hardy, making them great additions to community tanks. They thrive in large groups and are known for their social behavior, with males often defending their personal space against rivals.
Care
Lemon tetras are relatively easy to care for. They can adapt to a wide range of water conditions and are best kept in groups of six or more. They do well in tanks with plenty of natural live plants and filtered lighting.
Features
Approx. size: 1-2cm
Maximum size: 4cm
Origin: South America
Family: Characidae
Scientific name: Hyphessobrycon pulchripinnis
Ideal number kept together: 5+
Average purchase price (2025): £2-3 each
Water conditions
pH: 5.0–7.5
Hardness: 18-215 ppm
Temperature: 20–28 °C
Diet
Ominvore. The recommended food is tropical flake and small granules. Occasional live or frozen food can be given as a treat.
Compatibility
A great community fish with other similar sizes fishes.
Breeding
Breeding lemon tetras is relatively straightforward, especially if you provide the right conditions. Use a separate breeding tank with a capacity of about 40-60 litres. It should have soft, slightly acidic water (pH around 6.5) and a temperature between 75-80°F (24-27°C).
Add fine-leaf plants or a spawning mop for the fish to lay their eggs on. Java moss or spawning mops work well. A dark substrate can help keep the eggs safe from predators. Reduce the lighting in the tank to simulate their natural environment and encourage breeding.
Life Span
They can live to anything from 4-6 years in perfect conditions.
If you are new to the hobby or would like some general fishkeeping advice please click here to view our handy fishkeeping guide.
To browse our range of tropical fish granule food suitable for small mouthed fish please click here.
To browse our range of Tetra branded products please click here.
Photo credit(s): Shutterstock.
