Imperial Lapis Tetra

The Imperial Lapis Tetra, scientifically known as Hyphessobrycon sp. “Imperial Lapis,” is a small, iridescent characin collected from central Brazil. Imports are reported as wild-caught from soft, tannin-stained tributaries in the Tapajós–Madeira region, particularly the Rio Aripuanã and nearby blackwater creeks.

Adult Imperial Lapis Tetras reach about 1.6 to 2 inches (4 to 5 cm). The body shows a bright cobalt-to-lapis sheen above a bold black lateral stripe that runs from just behind the eye to the tail; the lower flanks are silvery and the fins are mostly clear with a faint rosy or amber wash in good light. Males tend to be slimmer and more intensely colored; females are a bit deeper-bodied.

A tank of at least 20 gallons is suitable for a small group. Keep Imperial Lapis Tetras in schools of six to ten or more for confidence and best color. Provide fine sand or small gravel, driftwood, leaf litter, dense planting, and some floating cover to diffuse light and mimic their creek habitat.

Water parameters should include a temperature of 72 to 79°F (22 to 26°C), a pH between 5.5 and 7.2, and soft to moderately hard water. Gentle filtration, stable chemistry, and regular partial water changes keep them at their best.

Feeding Hyphessobrycon sp. “Imperial Lapis” is straightforward. Offer high-quality micro pellets and flakes, along with small live or frozen foods such as daphnia, cyclops, and baby brine shrimp to deepen color and condition.

Imperial Lapis Tetras are peaceful and pair well with other small, calm fishes such as pencilfish, small Corydoras, dwarf Apistogramma, and hatchetfish. Avoid large or boisterous tankmates that outcompete them at feeding time.

Breeding is possible but typical of small tetras: they are egg scatterers with no parental care. Use a separate dimly lit tank with soft, acidic water, fine-leaved plants or spawning mops, and remove adults after spawning. Start fry on infusoria, then transition to newly hatched brine shrimp.

Hyphessobrycon sp. “Imperial Lapis” (Imperial Lapis Tetra) is a refined, wild-origin tetra that brings shimmering color and calm schooling motion to blackwater and planted aquariums.