Super Serpae Tetra

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: Hyphessobrycon callistus
• Common Name: Super Serpae Tetra
• Adult Size: 1.5 to 2 inches (3.8 to 5 cm)
• Life Expectancy: 5 to 7 years
• Habitat: Native to South America (Amazon Basin), often found in slow-moving, vegetation-rich waters like streams, ponds, and backwaters.

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 15 to 20 gallons (larger for groups)
• Ideal Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)
• pH Range: 5.0–7.8
• Water Hardness: 2–15 dGH

• Temperament: Semi-aggressive — best kept in groups of 6 or more to reduce fin-nipping. Can be mildly aggressive toward slow or long-finned tankmates.

Diet & Nutrition

Omnivorous — thrives on a variety of foods:

• High-quality flake or micro pellet food
• Frozen/live treats like brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia

• Vegetables like blanched spinach or zucchini (occasionally)

Feed once or twice daily in small amounts.

Breeding & Spawning

• Spawning Type: Egg-scatterer
• Conditions: Use a separate breeding tank with fine-leaved plants or spawning mops
• Water Parameters for Spawning: Soft, slightly acidic water

• Fry Care: Remove adults post-spawning. Eggs hatch in ~24–36 hours. Feed fry with infusoria or liquid fry food, then baby brine shrimp.

Appearance

• Body Color: Bright reddish-orange with a distinct black spot behind the gill cover
• Fins: Black edges on dorsal and anal fins

• Shape: Compressed oval body

Distinctive Features

• Striking red coloration and active swimming
• Known for schooling behavior
• May nip fins if not kept in a proper group size

• Adds vibrant movement to planted or community aquariums