Care guide, husbandry, breeding, disease, and sourcing intelligence on Rosy Tetra - written by the Fast Aquatics editorial team.
Rosy Tetra at a glance
Adult size: 1.5 inches · Min tank/pond: 20 gallons · Difficulty: beginner · Diet: omnivore · Lifespan: 5-8 years.
Rosy Tetra (Hyphessobrycon rosaceus) is a popular freshwater fish in the aquarium and pond hobby. Hardy and forgiving when given proper water chemistry.
Where Rosy Tetra comes from
Rosy Tetra (Hyphessobrycon rosaceus) is native to specific tropical and subtropical freshwater systems. Captive-bred specimens at most LFS come from generations of farmed stock and are generally hardier and more colorful than wild-caught equivalents.
Rosy Tetra tank size and setup
Rosy Tetra requires a minimum of 20 gallons for healthy adults. The minimum is based on 1.5 inches adult size and territorial range. Plan a tank sized for adult footprint, HOB or canister filter rated 4-6x volume, dechlorinated water, appropriate temperature heater, and stocking-appropriate hardscape.
Water parameters for Rosy Tetra
Rosy Tetra prefers freshwater parameters: temperature 74-80°F, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-12 dGH, KH 3-8 dKH, ammonia + nitrite 0 ppm, nitrate under 20 ppm. Use dechlorinator on every water change.
What Rosy Tetra eats
Rosy Tetra is a omnivore. Provide a varied diet of pellets, frozen foods, and supplemental greens. Feed twice daily in small portions. Browse our food guides for product recommendations.
Rosy Tetra tankmates and compatibility
Rosy Tetra works in community tanks with peaceful species in similar size class. Avoid mixing aggressive with passive species.
Rosy Tetra adult size and lifespan
Rosy Tetra reaches 1.5 inches at adulthood with a captive lifespan of 5-8 years with proper care.
Can you breed Rosy Tetra?
Rosy Tetra can be bred in dedicated breeding tanks with appropriate setup and water-chemistry triggers. Research the species-specific breeding requirements before attempting.
Common Rosy Tetra diseases and problems
Rosy Tetra is susceptible to standard freshwater diseases (ich, columnaris, fin rot, bacterial infections). Quarantine new Rosy Tetra for 4 weeks before adding to display.
Where to buy Rosy Tetra online
Rosy Tetra is sold at LFS, online retailers, and direct from breeders. Browse live Rosy Tetra from vetted Fast Aquatics vendors with carrier-tracked overnight shipping, climate-aware hold logic, and a 4-hour DOA window with photo-evidence claims.
Related freshwater species you might also keep
Other species in the same category with care profiles on Fast Aquatics. Click any name for the full husbandry breakdown.