Raccoon Tetra (Hyphessobrycon procyon)

Species Fact Sheet:

• Scientific Name: Hyphessobrycon procyon.
• Common Name: Raccoon Tetra (named after the Procyon star on the Brazilian flag, rather than a physical resemblance to the mammal, though some interpret its markings as “masked”).
• Origin: Endemic to Brazil, specifically the Rio Aripuanã drainage in the middle Madeira basin.
• Natural Habitat: Typically found in shallow, clear-water streams with moderate to rapid currents flowing over sandy or rocky substrates.

• Adult Size: Usually grows to approximately 4–5 cm (1.5–2 inches).
• Colouration: Features a shimmering rosy-gold or silver-gold body.
• Markings: Distinguished by two red humeral spots on each side and a dark blotch at the base of the caudal fin (tail).
• Sexual Dimorphism: Mature males develop significantly elongated dorsal and anal fins with warm yellow or orange tones. Females typically have shorter fins and a more yellowy appearance.

• Minimum Tank Size: An aquarium of at least 80 cm in length (approx. 60–75 litres) is recommended to accommodate their active swimming.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 22–28°C (72–82°F).
  • pH Level: 5.5–7.5 (slightly acidic conditions are optimal for colour development).
  • Hardness: Soft to medium (KH 1–18°).
• Environment: They thrive in well-planted tanks with ample open swimming space, driftwood, and leaf litter to mimic their natural Amazonian environment.

• Feeding: Strictly omnivorous; they accept most high-quality dried flakes, micropellets, and frozen or live foods such as Daphnia, Artemia, and bloodworms.
• Social Behaviour: A highly social schooling fish. It is essential to keep them in groups of at least 6 to 10 individuals to ensure they feel secure and display natural behaviours.
• Compatibility: Very peaceful; suitable for community aquariums with other small tetras, Corydoras, dwarf cichlids, and peaceful gouramis. Note that they may prey on very small shrimp fry.

• Method: They are egg scatterers that do not provide parental care.
• Conditions: Breeding usually requires soft, acidic water (around pH 6.0) and a separate spawning tank with fine-leaved plants or spawning mops to protect the eggs from being eaten by the adults.

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