Green Fire Tetra (Aphyocharax rathbuni)

Green Fire Tetra (Aphyocharax rathbuni)

The Green Fire Tetra is a peaceful and eye-catching fish featuring a light green body with a vibrant red lower half and tail. Their striking colour contrast and active behaviour make them a standout addition to any community aquarium.

Native to the Paraguay, Paraná, and Uruguay river systems across Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina, and Uruguay, this adaptable species does very well in planted aquariums and peaceful community setups.

Green Fire Tetras typically swim in the top and middle levels of the tank but will often explore the entire aquarium while feeding. They are best kept with other small, peaceful fish and can also coexist with peaceful dwarf cichlids such as Geophagus species. Adult dwarf shrimp may be safe tank mates, although very small shrimp or fry may be eaten. Larger peaceful invertebrates can also be suitable companions.

Like most tetras, they should be kept in groups of at least 6–8 fish, which helps them feel secure and display their natural schooling behaviour.

While not picky eaters, Green Fire Tetras will show their best colours when fed a varied diet. High-quality dry foods, along with frozen or live meaty foods, will all be readily accepted.

What We Like About This Fish

• Distinctive green and red colouration

• Peaceful and community friendly

• Active and noticeable in the aquarium

• Hardy and adaptable species

• Thrives in planted tanks

• A relatively uncommon tetra

Recommended Tank Parameters

• Temperature: 22–27°C (72–80°F)

• pH: 6.5–7.5 (slightly acidic preferred)

• KH: 1–30 dKH

• Minimum Tank Size: 60–75L (15–20 gallons) for a group of 6–8 adults

Care Guidelines

• Diet: Mostly carnivorous – accepts high-quality dry, frozen, and live foods

• Social Behaviour: Peaceful schooling fish

• Origin: Tank-bred (species native to Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina)

• Average Adult Size: ~3.8 cm (1.5 inches)

• Average Purchase Size: ~2.5 cm (1 inch)