Hyphessobrycon
serpae, or Serpae Tetra. The Serpae tetra is a well known and often kept
hearty community tank fish. They are also excellent planted tank fish.
The fish shown in the image to the left are hybrids. See this
link to search for a description and picture of a non-hybridized Serpae.
The Hyphessobrycon genus is distributed over all of South America, except
possibly the very far south on this continent. There natural habitats are
still and flowing waters. Generally, they prefer softer, more acidic
water, and are very hearty. They prefer temperatures of between 72 and 79
degrees Fahrenheit. They will eat dried food as well as brine shrimp and
blood worms. These are gregarious fish. However, when first
introduced into a tank, they may be shy for a few days. Soon, they will
make themselves quite visible, usually near the front and bottom of the tank.
The hybrid versions are quite a bit more attractive than their earlier cousins,
and make an excellent addition to a planted tank.