Racoon Tetra

About the Raccoon Tetra

The Raccoon Tetra is a rare and highly desirable South American schooling fish, admired for its shimmering silver body, bold black eye mask, and elegant black-and-white tail markings that resemble the facial pattern of a raccoon. Native to the upper Amazon Basin of Peru and Brazil, this uncommon tetra is a favourite among collectors looking for something unique in a peaceful community aquarium.

Growing to around 4–5 cm, the Raccoon Tetra is an active and social species that looks particularly impressive when kept in large schools. Their reflective silver body develops subtle golden and blue iridescence under quality aquarium lighting, while the contrasting black facial markings make them instantly recognisable.

Raccoon Tetras thrive in mature planted aquariums with driftwood, leaf litter, gentle water movement, and subdued lighting. They should always be kept in schools of at least 8–10, where they display natural schooling behaviour and become far more confident. Their peaceful temperament makes them excellent companions for Cardinal Tetras, Rummy Nose Tetras, Corydoras, Pencilfish, Rams, Apistogramma, Hatchetfish, and other peaceful South American community fish.

A varied diet of premium tropical flakes, micro pellets, frozen bloodworms, baby brine shrimp, daphnia, cyclops, and other live or frozen foods will maintain their vibrant colours and excellent health.

Elegant, peaceful, and uncommon, the Raccoon Tetra is an exceptional addition to planted aquariums and Amazon biotope displays.

Quick Care Guide

Scientific Name

Hyphessobrycon procyon

Common Name

Raccoon Tetra

Origin

Upper Amazon Basin (Peru and Brazil)

Adult Size

4–5 cm

Temperament

Peaceful

Diet

Omnivore

Minimum Tank Size

75 Litres

Temperature

24–28°C

pH

5.5–7.2

Water Hardness

1–10 dGH

Difficulty

Beginner to Intermediate

Lifespan

4–6 Years

Suitable For

Planted aquariums, Amazon biotopes, and peaceful community tanks

Frequently Asked Questions

How many Raccoon Tetras should I keep?

Raccoon Tetras are schooling fish and should always be kept in groups of at least 8–10. Larger schools create a more impressive display and help the fish feel secure.

Are Raccoon Tetras peaceful?

Yes. They are peaceful community fish that coexist well with other small South American species and similarly sized schooling fish.

What do Raccoon Tetras eat?

They thrive on premium tropical flakes, micro pellets, frozen bloodworms, baby brine shrimp, daphnia, cyclops, and other small live or frozen foods.

Can Raccoon Tetras live with shrimp?

Yes. Adult Cherry Shrimp and Amano Shrimp are generally safe, although very small shrimplets may occasionally be eaten.

Why are my Raccoon Tetras losing colour?

Stress, poor water quality, bright lighting, or an inadequate diet can reduce their natural colouration. A planted aquarium with subdued lighting, stable water parameters, and a varied diet will help maintain their best appearance.

Common Mistakes

Keeping them in small schools

Raccoon Tetras are highly social and become shy when kept in insufficient numbers.

Bright aquariums with little cover

Dense planting, driftwood, floating plants, and leaf litter help recreate their natural habitat and encourage stronger colours.

Poor water quality

Regular water changes and efficient filtration are essential for maintaining healthy, vibrant fish.

Feeding only dry foods

A varied diet including frozen and live foods improves colouration, health, and breeding condition.

Housing them with aggressive fish

Choose peaceful community species that won't intimidate or outcompete these gentle schooling fish.