Quick Overview

The Red Belly Tetra (Aphyocharax rathbuni), native to the slow-moving river drainages of Paraguay and Uruguay, is a hidden gem in the aquarium world. Often sold under the name Green Fire Tetra, it is highly prized for its unique, dual-tone color palette. They boast a sleek, iridescent lime-green to bronze upper body that beautifully catches the light, paired with an intensely rich, glowing crimson-red belly. Growing to a compact 1.5 to 2 inches, these highly active, tight-schooling fish spend their time darting through the mid-to-upper levels of the aquarium, creating a captivating visual rhythm.

Tank Requirements & Local Care Tips

Care Level: Beginner (Exceedingly hardy, robust, and highly adaptable)
Minimum Tank Size: 15 Gallons (Must be kept in schools of 6 or more; they love horizontal swimming space and become much bolder in larger groups)
Water Temperature: 22°C to 27°C (Thrives effortlessly in our standard tropical climate)
Temperament: Highly Peaceful (An outstanding community resident that pairs perfectly with other Tetras, Rasboras, Corydoras, and peaceful Dwarf Cichlids)

Bacolod Hobbyist Tip: Don’t be discouraged if young Red Belly Tetras look a bit pale or silvery when you first see them in a store tank. This species matures slowly, and their breathtaking metallic green and fiery red colors can take a few months to fully develop.

To maximize their glow here in Bacolod, house them in an aquarium with plenty of live plants (like Java Fern or floating Frogbit) and a dark gravel substrate. Feeding them a varied, high-quality diet rich in natural carotenoids—such as premium micro-pellets, baby brine shrimp, and crushed flakes—will dramatically speed up and intensify their coloration.

Drop by our Bacolod pet shop today to pick up premium color-enhancing fish foods, lush aquatic plants, and a lively, healthy school of Red Belly Tetras!