Flame Tetra (Von Rio Tetra)

Scientific Name: Hyphessobrycon flammeus

The Flame Tetra, also known as the Von Rio Tetra, is a colorful freshwater schooling fish known for the warm orange-to-red coloration that develops across the rear portion of its body and fins. When comfortable and maintained in good conditions, their fiery coloration becomes especially striking, making a school an attractive addition to planted and peaceful community aquariums.

Flame Tetras are peaceful, hardy, and relatively adaptable compared with many other tetra species. They should be maintained in groups where they can display natural schooling and social behavior. Their manageable size, forgiving care requirements, and peaceful temperament make them an excellent choice for both newer and experienced freshwater aquarists.

Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful / Active / Schooling
Adult Size: Approximately 1–1.5 inches
Minimum Tank Size: 15 gallons recommended
Temperature: 68–79°F
pH: 5.5–7.5
Diet: Omnivore
Recommended Group Size: 8 or more

Recommended Setup: A mature, well-filtered aquarium with plenty of open swimming space along with live plants, driftwood, and areas of cover. Darker substrate and some shaded areas can help bring out their orange-red coloration. Keep Flame Tetras in a school of at least 8 whenever possible and pair them with other peaceful community fish. Feed a varied diet of quality flakes or small pellets supplemented with appropriately sized frozen or live foods.

Please Note: Flame Tetras naturally vary in size, sex, coloration, and overall appearance. Recently transported or stressed fish may initially appear pale, with stronger orange and red coloration developing after they become comfortable in appropriate aquarium conditions. Male and female fish are selected at random, and a specific sex or ratio cannot be guaranteed. The fish you receive may not look exactly like the individual pictured.

All livestock from Felipe’s Fish is carefully selected and prepared for safe transport. Please review our shipping and Live Arrival Guarantee policies before ordering.

The care numbers are species-specific: Seriously Fish gives 68–79°F, pH 5.5–7.5, about 1" standard length, and recommends maintaining a good-sized shoal.