Author: Myers, 1924
FBname: Flame tetra
Remark: Ornamental species. See Weitzman et al. (1988) for comments on the distribution.
Comments: Inhabits small streams of slow flowing, dark-brown or clear water, shaded by small forests.  Occurs also in small streams with clear water and sandy bottom.  Prefers habitats with vegetation and streams with slow flowing water, living in depths not superior to 50 c and water temperature from 22°-28°C.  Forms relatively numerous schools with agonistic interaction among alpha males. Feeds on small insects, worms and plants.  Female lays around 200 to 330 oocytes on rocks, plants, or submerged debris; after that, the male releases the sperm for fertilization. The eggs hatch in about 2-3 days.  Longevity is around four years (Ref. 96863).  In tank, female lays 200 to 300 eggs which hatch in 2 to 3 days (Ref. 7020).  Aquarium keeping:  in groups of 5 or more individuals; minimum aquarium size 60 cm (Ref. 51539).