Rosy Tetra
Scientific Name: Hyphessobrycon rosaceus
Common Names: Rosy Tetra, Rosy Red Tetra
Origin: Guyana, Suriname, Amazon coastal drainages
Size: 4–5 cm
Temperament: Peaceful, schooling
Lifespan: 4–6 years
 
Species Overview
The Rosy Tetra is a classic, colourful schooling tetra known for its soft pink-to-rosy body tones, deep red fins, and black-tipped dorsal fin (more pronounced in males). It is calm, hardy, and highly social, thriving best in groups of 8 or more.
Rosy Tetras look their best in planted tanks with soft lighting and slightly tinted water. Their gentle nature makes them excellent community fish, especially alongside small peaceful species.
 
Care Sheet
Tank Requirements
Minimum Tank: 60–80 L (group of 8+)
Aquascape:
Planted setup with open swimming space
Driftwood, leaf litter, subdued colours
Dark substrate enhances colour
Filtration: Moderate, steady flow
Lighting: Low–moderate (brings out rosy tones)
Water Parameters
Temperature: 24–28°C
pH: 5.5–7.2
Hardness: 2–10 dGH
Nitrates: <20 ppm
Prefers soft, slightly acidic Amazon-style conditions.
 
Diet
Omnivorous; readily accepts most foods.
Micro-pellets
Quality flakes
Frozen brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms
Live micro foods for conditioning
Vegetable-based flakes occasionally
 
Behaviour & Tankmates
Very peaceful, social shoaler
Keep in groups of 8–12 minimum
Ideal tankmates:
Small tetras, rasboras
Corydoras
Apistogramma
Gouramis
Pencilfish
Small peaceful livebearers
Avoid:
Large cichlids
Fin-nippers
Aggressive or boisterous species
 
Breeding
Typical egg-scattering tetra
Condition with live/frozen foods
Use a separate breeding tank with fine plants or mesh
Soft, acidic water improves success
Adults will eat eggs — remove after spawning
Eggs hatch: 24–36 hours
Fry: free-swimming after 3–4 days
First foods:
Infusoria
Vinegar eels
Baby brine shrimp (once larger)