Royal Green Tetra – Rare Iridescent South American Freshwater Fish
The Royal Green Tetra (Hyphessobrycon margitae) is a beautiful and uncommon freshwater tetra admired for its brilliant iridescent body stripe, delicate reddish fins, and elegant schooling behaviour.
Native to the Río Nanay drainage of the Peruvian Amazon, this attractive species features a slender silver-grey body highlighted by a shimmering blue to blue-green longitudinal stripe. Under suitable aquarium lighting, the metallic reflections create a captivating appearance, while the reddish fins add a striking contrast.
Royal Green Tetras are peaceful, social fish that thrive in established planted aquariums with soft, slightly acidic water and plenty of sheltered swimming areas.
Their compact adult size makes them an excellent choice for carefully maintained South American community aquariums and natural blackwater-inspired aquascapes.
When kept in groups, these beautiful tetras display graceful movement and attractive social interactions, making them a wonderful addition for aquarists seeking an unusual freshwater schooling fish.
Care Guide
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Parameter
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Details
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Scientific Name
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Hyphessobrycon margitae
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Common Name
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Royal Green Tetra
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Other Trade Names
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Red-Blue Peru Tetra, Margitae Tetra
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Origin
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Río Nanay drainage, Peru
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Adult Size
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Approximately 4–5 cm
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Temperature
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23–27°C
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pH
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5.5–7.0
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Water Hardness
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1–10 dGH preferred
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Minimum Tank Size
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60–75 L+
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Recommended Tank Length
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60 cm+
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Diet
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Omnivore / Micropredator
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Temperament
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Peaceful
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Care Level
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Intermediate
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Group Size
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8–10+ recommended
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Lifespan
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Approximately 3–5 years, estimated
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Swimming Level
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Middle
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Water Flow
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Gentle to Moderate
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Aquarium Type
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Planted Aquarium / Blackwater Aquarium
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Special Requirements
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Soft water, stable conditions, group housing, shaded areas
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