How to Identify Serpae Tetra

To identify Serpae Tetra (Hyphessobrycon eques), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Predominantly bright red to reddish-orange body, often with a darker dorsal region. A prominent, vertically elongated, comma-shaped black spot is located just behind the operculum (gill cover). The dorsal fin is typically black with a white or reddish tip. Other fins are generally reddish, sometimes with black markings.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Vibrant red body coloration, Distinctive black comma-shaped spot behind the gill plate, Black dorsal fin with a white/reddish tip

Dorsal fin

Single, relatively tall, black with a white or reddish anterior tip.

Tail fin

Forked, reddish, sometimes with a faint black margin.

Pectoral fin

Small, clear to reddish.

Distinctive fins

Adipose fin present, typical of characins.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Coloration

   Look for the intense red to reddish-orange body color, which is a primary identifier.

2. 2

   Black Shoulder Spot

   The most definitive feature is the distinct, vertically elongated, comma-shaped black spot located just behind the gill cover.

3. 3

   Dorsal Fin

   Observe the dorsal fin, which is typically black with a contrasting white or reddish tip.

4. 4

   Body Shape

   Note the laterally compressed, somewhat deep body shape, characteristic of many Hyphessobrycon species.

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