Spotfin Tetra (Hyphessobrycon socolofi) — 2,5-3cm

Overview

The Hyphessobrycon socolofi, commonly known as the Spotfin Tetra or Socolofi Tetra, is a tiny, peaceful South American tetra for freshwater fish for sale UK that shines best in a planted shoal aquarium. Native to South America (exact native range is not well documented), this delicate species grows to around 3 cm in captivity and thrives in soft, acidic water with gentle filtration. At Tropical Fish Co, we supply healthy juveniles that adapt well to aquarium life and reward attentive care with years of engaging, social behavior.

Appearance and Coloration

Hyphessobrycon socolofi displays a slender, elongated body with a translucent silver or pale cream base color. The most distinctive feature is a prominent dark spot on the dorsal fin, which gives the species its common name. The fins are semi-translucent with faint pigmentation, and the caudal fin is slightly forked. Under subdued lighting, a subtle iridescence may appear along the flanks, shifting from pale blue to soft gold. Juveniles at 2.5–3 cm show the same delicate coloration as adults, which remains consistent throughout their lifespan.

Natural Habitat and Distribution

Exact native range is not well documented in the provided data, but Hyphessobrycon species typically inhabit slow-moving tributaries, flooded forest zones, and leaf-litter-rich streams of South America. Water conditions are typically warm (22–28 °C), soft, acidic, and heavily tannin-stained. The substrate is fine sand or mud, and the environment is dimly lit with minimal current. Hyphessobrycon species are diurnal schooling fish, actively foraging during daylight hours in large groups. Replicating these blackwater conditions at home encourages natural behavior and optimal health.

Aquarium Setup and Décor

A 40-litre aquarium is suitable for a shoal of ten to fifteen Hyphessobrycon socolofi. Best kept in a planted, dimly lit aquarium with gentle filtration and stable water quality. Use soft sand or very smooth substrate, and include driftwood, rounded stones, and live plants such as Java fern, Anubias, and Cryptocoryne. Floating plants help diffuse lighting and create shaded zones essential for this shy species. Subdued lighting is preferred. Maintain a proper shoal to reduce stress and encourage natural behavior; avoid hard, alkaline water if possible.

Feeding and Nutrition

Hyphessobrycon socolofi is an omnivore. Offer small live and frozen foods such as bloodworms (chopped if necessary), daphnia, brine shrimp, and cyclops, plus quality micro pellets or flakes, and occasional plant-based matter such as spirulina or finely crushed algae wafers. Offer a varied diet to maintain color and condition. Feed once or twice daily in small portions. This species has a small mouth and requires appropriately sized foods. Sinking and floating foods are both accepted, as these fish occupy the mid-water zone.

Behaviour and Social Structure

These tetras are highly social and must be kept in a proper shoal of at least ten individuals to display confident, natural behavior. In smaller numbers they become shy, stressed, and hide constantly. A well-adjusted shoal will actively swim throughout the aquarium during daylight hours, foraging constantly for micro-foods and displaying a synchronized swimming pattern. They are peaceful and compatible with a wide range of nano community fish. Males may display mild sparring behavior during feeding, but aggression is extremely rare.

Compatible Tank Mates

Ideal companions include other small peaceful tetras (neon, ember, green neon), rasboras (chili, Phoenix, harlequin), small peaceful corydoras (pygmaeus, hastatus), dwarf gouramis, and small peaceful livebearers (Endler's guppies). Avoid housing with large predatory fish, aggressive cichlids, fin-nipping species, or very large or boisterous tankmates. Small shrimp can coexist if the tank is well planted and offers hiding spaces.

Breeding in the Aquarium

Likely an egg-scattering characin that benefits from soft, slightly acidic water, fine-leaved plants or spawning mops, and removal of adults after spawning to prevent egg predation. Males are slightly more slender and may display more intense coloration. Spawning often occurs after a series of partial water changes with slightly cooler water. Eggs are scattered among fine-leaved plants and hatch within 24–36 hours. Fry require infusoria or liquid fry food initially, graduating to micro-worms and baby brine shrimp within a week. Breeding success is achievable with patience and excellent water quality.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

At Tropical Fish Co, every Spotfin Tetra is quarantined, health-checked, and acclimated to UK water conditions before dispatch. We source our fish from reputable suppliers who prioritize ethical collection and sustainable practices. Our livestock arrives in insulated packaging with heat packs during colder months, ensuring safe transit. With decades of combined fishkeeping experience, our team is available to answer questions about care, compatibility, and tank setup. Whether you're building a nano biotope or expanding an established planted aquarium, we're here to support your success. Order with confidence and enjoy premium freshwater fish delivered to your door.