Long fin serpae tetra 3cm

Long Fin Serpae Tetra (3cm) is a flowing-finned variant of the classic Serpae tetra, prized for its deep red body and elegant extended dorsal and anal fins. At 3cm, these juveniles are already showing good fin development and strong coloration.

🌿 Species Overview

• Scientific Name: Hyphessobrycon eques

• Common Name: Long Fin Serpae Tetra

• Current Size: ~3 cm

• Adult Size: 4–5 cm

• Origin: South America

• Temperament: Semi-aggressive, active schooling fish

This long-fin variety adds extra movement and visual drama compared to the standard short-fin form.

🎨 Appearance

• Deep red to ruby body coloration

• Distinct black humeral (shoulder) spot

• Flowing elongated dorsal and anal fins

• Subtle metallic sheen under strong lighting

Color deepens in mature, well-conditioned specimens.

🐟 Behavior & Compatibility

• Best kept in groups of 8 or more

• Can be fin-nippers if kept in small numbers

• Suitable tank mates: larger tetras, barbs, rainbowfish, peaceful cichlids

• Avoid slow, long-finned fish (e.g., bettas, fancy guppies)

Keeping them in larger schools significantly reduces aggression.

💧 Ideal Water Parameters

• Temperature: 24–28°C

• pH: 5.5–7.5

• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

• Water Flow: Moderate

• Weekly water changes recommended

They are hardy but display best color in slightly soft, clean water.

🏡 Tank Setup

• Minimum Tank Size: 80 liters

• Open swimming space

• Dark substrate enhances red coloration

• Driftwood and plants for cover

• Moderate lighting

A well-planted tank with mid-water space works best.

🍽 Feeding

• High-quality flakes or micro pellets

• Frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia

• Occasional live foods enhance color and fin development

Feed 1–2 times daily in small portions.

📈 Care Level

• Difficulty: Easy

• Hardy and adaptable

• Good for intermediate community setups

🌟 Why Choose 3cm Long Fin Serpae Tetra?

• Elegant extended fins

• Strong red coloration

• Active schooling display

• Hardy and adaptable

• Great contrast fish in planted tanks

Long Fin Serpae Tetras add bold red color and graceful fin movement to medium-sized community aquariums — especially when kept in a lively, well-sized group.