{"product_id":"red-cherry-muzel-tetra-hyphessobrycon-sp-mato-grosso","title":"Red Cherry Muzel Tetra - Hyphessobrycon sp. 'Mato Grosso'","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRed Cherry Muzel Tetra (Hyphessobrycon sp. 'Muzel Red Cherry')\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Red Cherry Muzel Tetra is a beautiful and relatively rare freshwater fish admired for its vibrant cherry-red colouration, elegant fins and peaceful shoaling behaviour. Also known as the Muzel Red Cherry Tetra or Red Muzel Tetra, this striking South American characin develops rich orange-red to deep red tones that become particularly impressive as the fish matures. Its compact size, attractive appearance and lively social behaviour make it a desirable addition to established planted aquariums and peaceful tropical communities. When maintained in a well-sized group, these colourful tetras create an eye-catching display, especially against natural greenery and darker aquarium substrates.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon Name:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eRed Cherry Muzel Tetra, Muzel Red Cherry Tetra, Red Cherry Tetra, Red Muzel Tetra\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eScientific Name (Latin):\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHyphessobrycon sp. 'Muzel Red Cherry'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMaximum Size:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eApproximately 3–4 cm, with some specimens potentially reaching around 5 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWater Type:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFreshwater\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin \/ Natural Habitat:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe Red Cherry Muzel Tetra is associated with Brazil, with the Mato Grosso region frequently mentioned in aquarium trade information.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, the precise natural distribution of Hyphessobrycon sp. 'Muzel Red Cherry' has not yet been reliably established, and its identity remains under scientific investigation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe small stream and floodplain environments of central Brazil commonly contain submerged branches, leaf litter, marginal vegetation and sheltered areas with relatively gentle water movement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese habitats provide a useful guide when recreating a suitable aquarium environment, although they should not be considered a confirmed description of this fish's exact wild habitat.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpecimens entering the aquarium trade have included captive-bred fish, helping establish this unusual tetra within specialist freshwater collections.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWater Parameters:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTemperature: 23–27°C\u003cbr\u003epH Range: 6.0–7.5\u003cbr\u003eHardness: Soft to Moderately Hard, approximately 3–12 dGH\u003cbr\u003eAmmonia\/Nitrite: 0 ppm\u003cbr\u003eNitrate: Kept low and stable\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTemperament:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePeaceful\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRed Cherry Muzel Tetras are generally peaceful, social fish that are best maintained in groups of at least 8–10 individuals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLarger groups of 12 or more are particularly rewarding, encouraging confident swimming, natural colour displays and interactions between individuals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMature males may occasionally display towards one another or establish small temporary territories, particularly around plants and sheltered areas. These interactions are generally manageable when sufficient space and cover are provided.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThey are best housed with peaceful, similarly sized community fish that share their preference for stable tropical freshwater conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAvoid large predatory fish, aggressive species and particularly boisterous tankmates that may intimidate these relatively small tetras.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDiet:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOmnivore\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRed Cherry Muzel Tetras accept a varied aquarium diet and are well suited to quality prepared foods supplemented with small live or frozen foods.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOffer high-quality tropical flakes, fine granules or appropriately sized micro pellets as their staple diet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSupplementary foods can include frozen or live baby brine shrimp, daphnia, cyclops, small bloodworms and other suitably sized aquatic invertebrates.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese protein-rich foods are particularly useful for supporting healthy growth, breeding condition and the development of vibrant red colouration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSmall amounts of vegetable-based ingredients can also be incorporated into their feeding routine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOffer small portions once or twice daily, ensuring all individuals receive sufficient food without excessive waste.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMinimum Tank Size:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eApproximately 80 litres\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough Red Cherry Muzel Tetras remain relatively small, they are active social fish that benefit from adequate horizontal swimming space.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn aquarium measuring approximately 70–80 cm in length or greater is recommended for a well-sized group.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLarger aquariums are preferable for substantial shoals or mixed community setups.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProvide a combination of open swimming areas, natural plants, driftwood and shaded sections to encourage confident behaviour and allow individuals to establish comfortable spaces within the aquarium.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBehaviour \u0026amp; Activity:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe Red Cherry Muzel Tetra is an active midwater swimmer that generally occupies the middle regions of the aquarium, occasionally exploring upper areas when feeding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts most attractive feature is the development of vivid orange-red to cherry-red body colouring, often complemented by more intensely coloured fins.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMature males may develop slightly larger bodies and more extended finnage, displaying towards females and competing males.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe dorsal fin can show a distinctive pale edge, while faint darker markings may be visible around the shoulder region.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYoung or recently transported specimens may appear paler, with stronger colours developing as they settle into stable aquarium conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough these fish naturally associate in groups, they may also spread out around plants and aquarium features when relaxed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA planted aquarium containing a combination of open swimming space and sheltered areas allows them to display their natural social behaviour.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommunity Suitability:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eCommunity Fish\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRed Cherry Muzel Tetras are well suited to peaceful tropical freshwater community aquariums, particularly established planted setups.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuitable tankmates include small rasboras, peaceful tetras, pencilfish, smaller Corydoras catfish and other non-aggressive species with compatible water requirements.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThey may also coexist with peaceful freshwater shrimp, although very small shrimp and newly hatched shrimplets may be viewed as food.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAvoid large predatory species, aggressive cichlids and highly competitive tankmates that may prevent them from feeding comfortably.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTheir relatively small adult size makes them particularly attractive for carefully planned community aquariums where peaceful fish and natural planting are prioritised.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMaintaining a sufficiently large group helps encourage settled behaviour and allows their striking colours and social interactions to be appreciated.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpecial Requirements or Care Notes:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eProvide a mature, well-established freshwater aquarium with stable water chemistry and efficient biological filtration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRed Cherry Muzel Tetras should be maintained in groups of at least 8–10 individuals, with larger groups recommended where aquarium space allows.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInclude plenty of live aquarium plants, driftwood and sheltered areas while retaining open space for swimming.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA darker substrate can help emphasise their rich red colouration, while floating plants or diffused lighting provide comfortable shaded areas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough captive-bred specimens may tolerate a reasonable range of water conditions, soft to moderately hard water with a slightly acidic to neutral pH is recommended.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRegular partial water changes are important for maintaining excellent water quality and preventing the accumulation of dissolved waste.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFeed a varied diet containing quality prepared foods alongside frozen or live foods to support natural colour development and healthy condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMales may occasionally display or defend small areas around aquarium plants, so providing sufficient cover and space is beneficial.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAvoid housing them with aggressive, predatory or excessively boisterous fish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs this is a relatively uncommon tetra with an unresolved scientific identity, information about its exact wild habitat and natural distribution remains limited.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCaptive-bred specimens should be selected where possible, and newly acquired fish should be acclimatised carefully to avoid sudden changes in temperature or water chemistry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSuitable for:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBeginner to Intermediate\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAvailability:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOccasional \/ Rare \/ Captive-bred specimens available\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAll images are a visual representation of the fish you will receive, made to be as accurate as possible. Please note that Mother Nature is a wonderful thing, and variation in patterns and colours will occur — that is part of the unique beauty of these animals.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Aqua Group","offers":[{"title":"Small","offer_id":67848615887021,"sku":"AG-105124","price":8.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Medium","offer_id":67848615919789,"sku":"AG-105125","price":9.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Large","offer_id":67848615952557,"sku":"AG-105126","price":10.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0543\/0391\/6205\/files\/RedCherryMuzelTetra_Hyphessobryconsp._MuzelRedCherry.jpg?v=1793527647","url":"https:\/\/aquagroup.co.uk\/products\/red-cherry-muzel-tetra-hyphessobrycon-sp-mato-grosso","provider":"Aqua Group","version":"1.0","type":"link"}