The ember tetra (Hyphessobrycon amandae) is a small fish originally found in the lower Amazon River basin.  This tiny fish only grows to an adult size of 0.59 to 0.79 inches long.  Adult males tend to be less deep bodied and more intensely colored than females.

The ember tetra should be maintained in an aquarium of 10 gallons or larger.  A dark colored soft, sandy substrate (CS6631) is a good choice.  Driftwood (ZM2000) and lots of live or artificial plants may also be incorporated.

The ember tetra is an adaptable fish that prefers a temperature of 68°F to 82°F, a pH of 5.0 to 7.0, and a hardness of of up to 2 to 20°H.  

The ember tetra is an excellent fish for a small community aquarium as it is active and peaceful.  Keep it in groups of 8 or more for the best effect.  Good tank mates include small peaceful barbs, small livebearers, danios, rasboras, cory catfish, smaller Loricariids, other small tetras, pencil fish, hatchetfish, and peaceful dwarf cichlids.

In the wild, the ember tetra is probably a micropredator feeding on tiny invertebrates and other zooplankton.  In the aquarium it will accept dry and frozen foods of similar sizes.  Good choices include frozen brine shrimp (SF4796) and cyclops (SF1001), as well as high quality flakes (AL165).  For maximum color, growth, and health these fish will look their best when given probiotics (AL169) in addition to a balanced diet.