The ember tetra (Hyphessobrycon amandae) is a freshwater fish of the characin family (family Characidae) of order Characiformes. It is native to the Araguaia River basin of Brazil and was discovered in 1987 and named in honor of the fish explorer Heiko Bleher's mother (Amanda Bleher).[2]
This species is of typical tetra shape but grows to a maximum overall length of approximately 2 cm (0.8 in).; Most exhibit striking orange and reddish coloration with mild translucency near the pelvic fin. The eye frequently mirrors the color of the fish and is outlined in black.
The fish's natural diet consist of small invertebrates and plants.
Although somewhat hard to find in fish stores, H. amandae is commonly kept as an aquarium fish by hobbyists.