Lemon Tetra

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: Hyphessobrycon pulchripinnis
• Common Name: Lemon Tetra
• Adult Size: 1.5 to 2 inches (3.5 to 5 cm)
• Life Expectancy: 4 to 8 years (with proper care)
• Habitat: Native to Amazon River basin, Brazil — prefers slow-moving waters with dense vegetation and leaf litter.

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 15 gallons (for a small school of 6+)
• Ideal Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)
• pH Range: 5.5–7.5
• Water Hardness: 3–15 dGH
• Temperament: Peaceful and social — great for community tanks. Best kept in groups of 6 or more to reduce stress and enhance color.

Diet & Nutrition

Omnivorous — accepts a wide variety of food:

• High-quality flakes or micro pellets
• Frozen/live foods: brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms

• Vegetable matter like spirulina flakes or blanched spinach

Feed small amounts 1–2 times daily.

Breeding & Spawning

• Spawning Type: Egg scatterers
• Breeding Tank: Use soft, slightly acidic water with fine-leaved plants or spawning mops
• Spawning Conditions: Slightly dim lighting, temp around 78–80°F (25–27°C)
• Eggs Hatch: In 24–36 hours

• Fry Care: Infusoria or liquid fry food first, then baby brine shrimp

Appearance

• Body Color: Transparent to golden-yellow body
• Fins: Lemon-yellow anal and dorsal fins with a black outer edge
• Eyes: Bright red upper half of the iris (sign of good health)

• Body Shape: Deep-bodied and laterally compressed

Distinctive Features

• Bright lemon-yellow fins
• Red upper eye ring (healthy individuals)
• Peaceful schooling behavior
• Ideal for planted community tanks

• Enhances aquarium with subtle, elegant colors