Silvertip Tetra

Hasemania nana, commonly known as the silvertip tetra or copper tetra, is a small, active freshwater fish native to the São Francisco River basin in Brazil. It is popular in the aquarium hobby for its lively nature and distinct metallic sheen.

Physical Characteristics

• Size:
  Grows up to 4–5 cm (1.5 to 2 inches) in length.

• Appearance:
  Features a translucent body with a golden-copper sheen and a dark black stripe running down the middle toward a forked tail. Uniquely for tetras, they lack an adipose fin.

• Sexual Dimorphism:
  Males exhibit a brighter coppery-orange color with striking white or silver tips on their fins, while females are paler, with a silver-yellowish hue and a fuller body.

Aquarium Care & Requirements

• Tank Size:
  Requires a minimum of 60 to 70 liters (approximately 15–20 gallons) to accommodate a small active school.

• Water Parameters:
  Thrives in temperatures between 22–28°C (72–82°F) and a pH range of 6.0 to 8.0.

• Social Behavior:
  Best kept in a school or shoal of at least 6 to 10 individuals to curb fin-nipping tendencies and encourage natural schooling behavior. It is advisable to avoid housing them with slow, long-finned fish like bettas.

• Diet:
  Omnivorous; easily accepts high-quality flakes, micro-granules, and frozen or live foods like brine shrimp and daphnia.