Kitty tetra

Hyphessobrycon heliacus

A golden body, dark tail-base spot and elongated male fins

The golden body carries short dark markings along its middle and a conspicuous black caudal-peduncle spot. Mature males have elongated dorsal and pelvic fin rays.

Adult length: Up to 2.8 cm (standard length, without the tail fin)
Water temperature: 24–28 °C
pH: 5.5–7

Natural habitat: Recorded from still marginal sections of streams over mud with abundant submerged vegetation.

Six or more still need adequate space. Small adult shrimp may be eaten.

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Appearance and identification

The trade name Kitty has been used for similar fishes. Check the scientific name and the actual fish: elachys is more silvery and has pale tail markings.