Vampire Tetra

Characidae sp.

Vampire Tetra (Characidae sp.) — Advanced care, Aggressive, under Other. Minimum tank in the app: 185 US gal min; aim for 75–82°F and pH 5.5–7.5. The Vampire Tetra is ideal for aquarists seeking a visually striking, peaceful shoaler that thrives in larger setups.

Vampire Tetra (Characidae sp.) in a planted freshwater aquarium
Care levelAdvanced
TemperamentAggressive
Min tank size185 US gal min
pH range5.5–7.5
Temperature75–82°F
Max size11.8 in (30.0 cm)
Captive lifespan6–12 years
SchoolingYes · 6+ recommended

Captive lifespan reflects typical experience in a home aquarium, not maximum recorded age; genetics, sourcing, and care vary.

Natural distribution

Mostly South America

  • South America

Regional colours match the stocking calculator’s origin map.

Vampire Tetra Tank Setup

A 700-liter tank should feature ample open swimming space complemented by structured hiding spots using plants and driftwood. A gentle water flow mimics their natural habitat, with a substrate that allows for easy foraging. Lighting should be moderate to enhance their colors without causing stress; dimmer areas will encourage more natural behaviors.

What Do Vampire Tetras Eat?

These tetras are opportunistic feeders, thriving on micro foods, but can experience competition during feeding time. Offering a variety of foods, including high-quality flakes and live or frozen options, will promote optimal health and enhance coloration.

Vampire Tetra Tank Mates

Ideal companions include similarly sized, peaceful species that occupy different swimming zones, such as small cichlids or other tetras. Avoid aggressive or overly territorial species, as they can disrupt the social dynamics of the shoal. Intraspecies aggression is minimal, but ensure groups are large enough to prevent any stress-related issues.

Are Vampire Tetras Good for Beginners?

This sits in the advanced range in the app. Strong filtration, stable chemistry, and reading up before purchase matter more than a catchy shop name. Aquarists often underestimate the need for space and group size, leading to stress and aggression among the tetras. Inadequate filtration can also lead to poor water quality, exacerbating health issues.

Building a community? Run the full list through the stocking calculator before you add anything else.

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