Highlights

Scientific Name: Hyphessobrycon pulchripinnis
Common Name: Lemon Tetra
Origin: Amazon River Basin, South America
Size: Up to 5 cm (2 inches)
Lifespan: 4–8 years with proper care
Temperament: Peaceful, schooling fish

Tank Setup

Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons for a small school
Group Size: Keep in groups of at least 6–10 to reduce stress and encourage natural behavior
Water Conditions:
Temperature: 28°C (72–82°F)
pH: 6.0–7.5
Hardness: 2–15 dGH
Filtration: Gentle flow preferred to mimic slow-moving Amazon waters
Substrate & Decor: Use dark substrate with dense vegetation and hiding spots to replicate their natural habitat

Diet

Type: Omnivorous
Food Options:
High-quality flake or micro pellet food
Live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms
Occasional vegetable matter (e.g., blanched spinach or zucchini)