CHOCOLATE NEON TETRA 3CM (RARE)

Original price was: $26.50.Current price is: $20.00.

15 in stock

The Chocolate Neon Tetra (Hyphessobrycon vilmae) is a small, beautifully coloured tetra native to the blackwater streams of South America. It features a rich brown to copper body with an iridescent blue-green stripe running along its side, giving it a subtle, neon-like shimmer. Growing up to 3–4 cm, it is peaceful and best kept in groups of six or more.

Fun fact: Despite its name, the Chocolate Neon Tetra isn’t related to the true Neon Tetra—it’s a distinct species prized for its warm, earthy tones and gentle glow under soft lighting.

SKU: 509.21933 Categories: ENTIRE RANGE, Exotics & Unusual, ON SALE, Tetras & Pencilfishes

Description

Chocolate Neon Tetra (Hyphessobrycon vilmae) – Care Guide

Overview

Scientific Name: Hyphessobrycon vilmae

Common Name: Chocolate Neon Tetra

Origin: Amazon Basin, South America – particularly in slow-moving, tannin-stained waters

Size: Up to 3.5 cm

Lifespan: 3–5 years with proper care

Temperament: Peaceful and schooling; ideal for community aquariums

Appearance

The Chocolate Neon Tetra is a delicate and attractive species featuring a warm, chocolate-brown body with a subtle iridescent blue-green horizontal stripe. Its appearance deepens in colour under subdued lighting, with the reflective stripe glowing beautifully against dark substrates and backgrounds.

Water Parameters

Temperature: 23–27°C
pH: 5.5–7.0 (slightly acidic preferred)
Hardness: 1–8 dGH (soft water)
Water Movement: Gentle flow with well-oxygenated conditions

They thrive in soft, tannin-rich water that mimics their natural blackwater environment. Regular partial water changes are important to maintain consistent quality.

Tank Setup

Minimum Tank Size: 50 litres for a small group
Substrate: Dark sand or fine gravel to highlight their colours
Décor: Use driftwood, Indian almond leaves, and smooth rocks to create a shaded, natural look
Plants: Include floating plants and fine-leaved species such as Java moss and Hygrophila
Lighting: Dim to moderate; bright light can stress them and wash out their colours

Keep in groups of at least 8–10 individuals to encourage natural schooling behaviour and confidence.

Diet

The Chocolate Neon Tetra is omnivorous and benefits from a balanced, varied diet:

High-quality micro pellets or fine flakes
Live or frozen foods such as daphnia, bloodworms, and brine shrimp
Occasional vegetable matter or spirulina-based foods

Feed small portions two to three times a day, ensuring all food is consumed within a few minutes.

Behaviour and Compatibility

This species is gentle and best suited to peaceful community tanks. It coexists well with other small South American fish such as Corydoras, pencilfish, hatchetfish, and other tetras. Avoid aggressive or fast-moving tank mates that may outcompete them for food.

Breeding

Breeding Hyphessobrycon vilmae can be achieved in a controlled environment:

Provide soft, acidic water (pH 6.0–6.5) with a temperature around 26°C
Use fine-leaved plants or spawning mops for egg scattering
Keep lighting dim, as eggs are light-sensitive
Remove adults after spawning to prevent egg predation
Eggs hatch in 2–3 days, and fry can be fed infusoria, followed by baby brine shrimp

Conclusion

The Chocolate Neon Tetra (Hyphessobrycon vilmae) is a peaceful and elegant addition to any small or planted aquarium. Its subtle beauty and calm schooling nature make it perfect for aquarists seeking a tranquil and natural-looking community setup.