What size tank does a Columbian Red Fin Tetra need?

Columbian Red Fin Tetra needs a minimum of 10 gallons, with 15 gallons recommended. They are middle swimmers. Keep in groups of 6+.

Is Columbian Red Fin Tetra good for beginners?

Columbian Red Fin Tetra is rated "intermediate" difficulty (2/5). Great for beginners.

What fish are compatible with Columbian Red Fin Tetra?

Columbian Red Fin Tetra is semi-aggressive. Compatible tank mates include other semi-aggressive fish with similar water parameters (pH 6-7.5, temp 72-82°F). Give adequate territory space.

Columbian Red Fin Tetra

Hyphessobrycon columbianus

Family: Characidae • Origin: Various

Columbian Red Fin Tetra (Hyphessobrycon columbianus) is a semi-aggressive tetra reaching 2.5 inches. Keep in groups of 6+. Minimum tank size: 10 gallons.

Min Tank

10 gal

Max Size

2.5"

Temperature

72-82°F

6-7.5

Lifespan

4 years

School Size

Swim Level

middle

Hardness

5-15 dGH

semi-aggressiveintermediateomnivoreschooling

Is Columbian Red Fin Tetra Right for Your Tank?

Columbian Red Fin Tetra is an excellent choice for beginners — rated "intermediate" difficulty (2/5). They're hardy, forgiving of minor water parameter fluctuations, and generally easy to feed. At just 10 gallons minimum, they work well in nano tanks and smaller setups.

Columbian Red Fin Tetra is semi-aggressive — they can live with others but may bully smaller or slower fish. Choose tank mates carefully. This is a schooling species — keep at least 6 together, or they may become stressed and display abnormal behavior. They are territorial — provide adequate hiding spots and maintain enough space to reduce aggression. Expected lifespan: 4 years with proper care.

Common Mistakes with Columbian Red Fin Tetra

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Keeping fewer than 6 together

Columbian Red Fin Tetra is a schooling species — they need a group of at least 6 to feel secure. Lone or paired individuals become stressed, hide constantly, and may develop health issues or aggression.

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Relying on a heater without a thermometer

Columbian Red Fin Tetra needs 72–82°F. Heaters malfunction or drift over time — always use a separate thermometer to verify. Temperature swings of even 3–4°F can trigger stress and disease, particularly ich.

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Putting them in a tank under 10 gallons

While 10 gallons is the minimum, nano tanks require more frequent water changes and leave less room for error. A slightly larger tank (15 gal) is much more forgiving.

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Housing with peaceful nano fish

Columbian Red Fin Tetra is semi-aggressive and territorial — small, peaceful species like neon tetras, endlers, or celestial pearl danios will be stressed, bullied, or eaten. Choose tank mates that can hold their own.