Ember tetras are tiny, glowing-orange shoaling fish that have become a favourite for nano and planted aquariums. At barely 2 cm they suit tanks too small for most fish, they shoal beautifully in groups, and their warm colour pops against green plants and dark substrate. They are peaceful, hardy once settled, and perfect companions for shrimp.

Here is how to keep them.

Quick facts

• Adult size: 2 cm
• Tank size: 40 litres for a shoal of 8–10
• Water: pH 5.5–7.0, soft, 23–28 °C
• Lifespan: 2–4 years
• Temperament: peaceful, shoaling

Tank setup

Ember tetras thrive in a densely planted nano tank with gentle flow. Their orange colour deepens over dark substrate with tannin-stained water — add almond leaves or botanicals. Keep them in a mature, cycled tank; they are small and sensitive to new tank syndrome.

Shoaling and feeding

Keep a shoal of at least eight — the more, the better the display and the more confident they behave. Feed small foods their tiny mouths can manage: crushed micro pellets, powdered flake and frozen baby brine shrimp.

Tank mates

Ideal in nano and shrimp tanks with cherry shrimp, otocinclus, small rasboras and nerite snails. Avoid anything large enough to eat a 2 cm fish.

Frequently asked questions

How many ember tetras should I keep?

At least eight. They are shoaling fish that show their best colour and behaviour in groups — larger shoals look even better.

Are ember tetras good for nano tanks?

Yes — at just 2 cm they are one of the best shoaling fish for tanks from around 40 litres, especially planted nano aquascapes.

Can ember tetras live with shrimp?

Yes. They are too small to harm adult cherry shrimp and make excellent companions in a planted shrimp tank, though they may eat the occasional tiny shrimplet.

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— Jaqline Smalling, FishForever