AquariumFish.com
Freshwater fishRed Blue Colombian Tetra
Red Blue Colombian Tetra
Couldn't load pickup availability
The larger these fish get, the bolder the blue body and red fins become, and fortunately these tetras live for seven years. Called the red blue Colombian tetra or simply the Colombian tetra, this fish is wild-caught in Colombia. However, the tetra breeds easily, and most in the trade are imported from a fish farm in Singapore. The fish have only been around since the 1990s, but they are very adaptive to community tanks if kept in groups of five or more. Loners get unhappy and nippy.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Hyphessobrycon columbianus |
| Origin | Northern Colombia (Caribbean slope) |
| Care Level | Easy |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive (may nip fins if kept in small groups) |
| Adult Size | Up to 2½–3" |
| Lifespan | 5–10 years |
| Diet | Omnivore |
| Water Temperature | 72–80°F |
| pH | 6.0–7.5 |
| Group Size | Does best in a group |
| Shipping Size | Approx. 1" |
Care Guide
Tank setup: These are larger, active schooling fish, so give them open swimming space, plants or driftwood along the back and a tight-fitting lid, since they jump.
Feeding: Feed a quality flake or small pellet once or twice a day. They also enjoy frozen foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp.
Tankmates: They do well with other active, similar-size fish such as larger tetras, barbs, rainbowfish, peaceful cichlids, corydoras and plecos. Very small fish may be eaten or bullied.
Good to know: Larger tetras are hardy and long-lived, and a big school makes a striking display.
Share
