Tetra – Kitty Tetra (Hyphessobrycon Heliacus) 2.5cm

Kitty Tetra (Hyphessobrycon heliacus): Colorful and Elegant Community Fish

Add a splash of brilliance to your aquarium with the stunning Kitty Tetra! Native to the Amazon and Araguaia River Basins, this vibrant fish dazzles with its yellow, orange, and green hues. For example, its elegant fins and peaceful nature make it a standout in community tanks. Consequently, both novice and experienced aquarists adore its lively charm. Order now to elevate your tank with these radiant schooling fish!

Caring for Kitty Tetra

To ensure Kitty Tetras flourish, provide a planted tank of at least 60 litres with a dark substrate to highlight their vivid colours. For instance, maintain water temperatures between 24°C and 28°C, with a pH range of 6.0–7.5, mimicking their natural soft, acidic habitat. Moreover, floating plants and clean water, supported by gentle filtration and regular 20–30% weekly water changes, are crucial for their health. However, subdued lighting enhances their optimal coloration.

Ideal Tank Mates

Kitty Tetras are peaceful and thrive in schools of six or more, displaying captivating schooling behaviours. For example, they coexist harmoniously with small, non-aggressive species like neon tetras, rasboras, Corydoras catfish, and dwarf gouramis. However, avoid housing them with large or predatory fish, as their small size and delicate nature make them potential targets. Moreover, while safe with larger invertebrates, they may prey on small adult shrimp.

Feeding and Nutrition

As omnivores, Kitty Tetras require a varied diet to sustain their vibrant colours and health. For instance, high-quality flake foods and pellets should be their staple, supplemented with frozen or live foods like brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia. Moreover, occasional plant-based foods, such as spirulina flakes, ensure balanced nutrition. Consequently, feed them small portions 2–3 times daily to maintain water quality and enhance their radiant hues.

Breeding Kitty Tetras

Breeding Kitty Tetras is moderately challenging but achievable with the right setup. For example, create a breeding tank with soft, acidic water, dim lighting, and fine-leaved plants or spawning mops for egg-laying. Moreover, after eggs are laid and fertilised, remove the adults to protect the eggs. Consequently, the fry hatch within 24–48 hours and require infusoria or finely powdered fry food until they can accept larger foods.

Species Overview

The Kitty Tetra is a vibrant and elegant schooling fish, perfect for planted community aquariums. Moreover, its striking colours and peaceful temperament make it a favourite among aquarists seeking a lively yet low-maintenance species.

• Species: Hyphessobrycon heliacus
• Common Name: Kitty Tetra
• Origin: Amazon River Basin and Araguaia River, Peru and Brazil
• Diet: Omnivore
• PH Range: 6.0–7.5
• Temperature: 24°C–28°C
• Max Size: Approximately 3 cm
• Tank Size: Minimum 60 litres

FAQs about Kitty Tetra

What tank size is ideal for Kitty Tetras?
A minimum of 60 litres is recommended, with plants and a dark substrate to enhance their colours.

Can Kitty Tetras live with other fish?
Yes, they thrive with small, peaceful species like neon tetras and Corydoras in community tanks.

What do Kitty Tetras eat?
They enjoy flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods like brine shrimp for vibrant coloration.

Are Kitty Tetras easy to care for?
Yes, their adaptability makes them suitable for beginners, provided water conditions are stable.

What water conditions do Kitty Tetras need?
They prefer soft, slightly acidic water with temperatures between 24°C and 28°C.

Order your Kitty Tetra today and add vibrant Amazonian elegance to your aquarium! Live fish and aquarium products shipped Australia-wide.