Lemon Tetra

Hyphessobrycon pulchripinnis

The lemon tetra, Hyphessobrycon pulchripinnis, is a small South American characin from the Brazilian Amazon, especially clear and slow-moving tributary habitats of the lower Amazon basin. Aquarium strains have been kept for decades, and most fish in the trade are captive bred rather than wild collected. A healthy adult has a translucent yellow body, lemon-washed dorsal and anal fins, a dark anal-fin edge, and a red upper iris that brightens with maturity and good condition. Males are usually slimmer and show stronger fin markings than females.

In aquariums, lemon tetras are peaceful schooling fish that show their best color in groups, in planted tanks, and under moderate lighting with some shade. They adapt to a range of well-maintained community setups, though soft to moderately hard water and a steady temperature suit them best. Flake, small pellets, frozen foods, and live microfoods are all accepted. Breeding is possible in a separate tank with fine plants or spawning mops; the adults scatter eggs and may eat them, so fry survival depends on removing the parents or protecting the eggs. Buyers should look for active fish with clear eyes, full bodies, and intact fins rather than washed-out color alone.