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Fancy Fish and Aquascapes

Candy Cane Tetra ~ Hyphessobrycon bentosi

Candy Cane Tetra ~ Hyphessobrycon bentosi

Regular price $7.00 USD
Regular price $9.00 USD Sale price $7.00 USD
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The Candy Cane Tetra, also known as the Ornate Tetra, is a colorful and peaceful freshwater fish with a silvery-pink body and bright red accents on its fins. Native to slow-moving rivers and tributaries in South America, particularly in the Amazon Basin, this species is prized for its vibrant appearance and compatibility with community aquariums.

  • Size: 1.5-2 inches
  • Lifespan: 4-6 years
  • Temperament: Peaceful, social
  • Group/Solitary: Best kept in groups of 6+
  • Food: Omnivorous; flake food, micro-pellets, live/frozen foods (daphnia, brine shrimp)
  • Water Requirements: 72-78°F, pH 6.0-7.5, soft to moderately hard water

Candy Cane Tetras inhabit shaded, slow-moving waters in their natural habitat, often among dense vegetation and driftwood. In aquariums, they thrive in well-planted setups with a soft substrate and subdued lighting to mimic their native environment. A tank of at least 20 gallons is recommended for a group of six or more, as they are schooling fish that feel most comfortable and display their best colors in numbers. These tetras are compatible with other peaceful species, such as rasboras, corydoras, and dwarf gouramis, making them a versatile choice for community tanks.

As omnivores, Candy Cane Tetras do well on a diet of high-quality flake food or micro-pellets supplemented with live or frozen treats like brine shrimp, daphnia, or bloodworms. Their active swimming and natural schooling behavior make them an engaging addition to any aquarium. Regular water changes and stable water parameters are essential to keep these fish healthy and stress-free.

Interesting Fact: Candy Cane Tetras are known for their subtle yet striking coloration, which intensifies under optimal conditions. The red and pink hues in their fins and body are more pronounced when they are kept in a planted tank with proper lighting and a balanced diet.

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