Ornate Tetra (Hyphessobrycon bentosi) is an intermediate-level freshwater fish that needs at least 30 gallons and 72-80°F. A small tetra with a tall, white-edged dorsal fin on males. It is peaceful and does best in a group of eight or more in a planted tank with gentle flow, with live or frozen food for color and condition.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Hyphessobrycon bentosi |
|---|---|
| Family | Characidae |
| Origin | Amazon basin, South America |
| Adult size | 1.75 in |
| Minimum tank | 30 gallons |
| Temperature | 72-80°F |
| pH | 5.5-7.5 |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Social behavior | Schooling, keep 8+ |
| Swim level | Mid |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Diet | Omnivore: micro pellets, flakes, frozen foods |
| Typical lifespan | 3-5 years |
Quick tips
- Keep eight or more.
- Gentle flow and plants suit it.
- Avoid boisterous tankmates.
San Diego water
Captive-bred stock usually adapts to San Diego tap water with slow acclimation. For best color and health, many keepers blend tap with RO/DI water. Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
Before you buy
Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi