The Peppermint Tetra is a visually striking and peaceful freshwater fish known for its soft pinkish to silver body accented with subtle red tones and contrasting white-edged fins that give it a “peppermint” appearance. Closely related to the Ornate/Bentosi group of tetras, it displays elegant finnage and gentle schooling behavior, making it ideal for calm, well-planted community aquariums. These fish thrive in groups where they exhibit mild social displays without aggression, and their coloration becomes more pronounced in subdued lighting with dark substrates and natural décor like driftwood. Hardy and adaptable, Peppermint Tetras prefer stable water conditions and a varied diet, rewarding proper care with graceful movement and understated beauty.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Hyphessobrycon bentosi (peppermint variety) |
| Common Name | Peppermint Tetra |
| Tank Size | 15–20+ gallons |
| Group Size | 6–10+ (schooling fish) |
| Temperature | 23–28°C (73–82°F) |
| pH Range | 5.5–7.2 |
| Water Hardness | Soft to moderately hard |
| Behavior | Peaceful, mild display behavior |
| Diet | Omnivore (flakes, micro pellets, frozen/live foods like brine shrimp, daphnia) |
| Tank Setup | Planted tank, subdued lighting, driftwood, open swimming space |
| Lifespan | 3–5 years |
| Breeding | Egg scatterer; best in dim, separate tank |
| Tankmates | Peaceful community fish (tetras, rasboras, small catfish) |
