Raccoon Tetra (Hyphessobrycon procyon)

The Raccoon Tetra is a stunning and relatively rare freshwater nano fish known for the distinctive black facial markings that resemble a raccoon’s mask. Its shimmering silver body, accented by dark bands and subtle iridescence, makes it a standout addition to planted aquariums and peaceful community tanks. Active, social, and easy to care for, the Raccoon Tetra is an excellent choice for aquarists looking for something unique and eye-catching.

What We Like About This Fish

• Distinctive raccoon-like facial markings
• Beautiful silver body with subtle iridescence
• Peaceful and community-friendly temperament
• Active schooling behavior
• Excellent choice for planted aquariums
• Suitable for both beginner and experienced aquarists

Recommended Tank Parameters

• Tank Size: Minimum 15 gallons (57 liters), 20+ gallons recommended
• Temperature: 22–27°C (72–80°F)
• pH Level: 5.5–7.2
• KH: 2–8 dKH
• Water Type: Soft, clean, and well-maintained water

A planted aquarium with driftwood, leaf litter, floating plants, and subdued lighting will help recreate the natural blackwater habitat preferred by this species.

Care Guidelines

• Diet: Omnivorous; accepts micro pellets, flakes, frozen foods, and live foods such as baby brine shrimp and daphnia
• Social Behavior: Peaceful schooling fish; best kept in groups of 6 or more
• Origin: Tank-bred; species native to Brazil
• Average Adult Size: 3–3.8 cm (1.2–1.5 inches)
• Average Purchase Size: 2–3 cm (0.75–1.2 inches)
• Shrimp Safe: No; adult fish may prey on shrimp fry, although they can coexist with adult shrimp in heavily planted aquariums

Natural Habitat and Aquarium Setup

Raccoon Tetras originate from slow-moving streams and tributaries in Brazil where the water is often stained by tannins from decomposing leaves and wood. In the aquarium, they appreciate a natural environment with driftwood, botanicals, and dense vegetation. Floating plants can help diffuse lighting and encourage more natural behavior while enhancing their coloration.

Suitable plants include Amazon Sword, Anubias, Cryptocoryne, Java Fern, Salvinia, and Amazon Frogbit. Adding Indian Almond Leaves, Alder Cones, and other botanicals can further replicate their natural habitat.

Tank Mates and Compatibility

The Raccoon Tetra is a peaceful species that mixes well with other small, non-aggressive fish, including:

• Ember Tetras
• Green Neon Tetras
• Corydoras Catfish
• Otocinclus Catfish
• Apistogramma Dwarf Cichlids
• Peaceful Gouramis

Avoid large, aggressive, or overly active species that may intimidate this fish.

Why Keep Raccoon Tetras?

The Raccoon Tetra combines unique markings, peaceful behavior, and active schooling habits into one attractive package. Their uncommon appearance and compatibility with planted aquariums make them an excellent choice for hobbyists seeking a distinctive nano fish that stands out from more commonly available tetra species. Whether kept in a blackwater biotope or a lush aquascape, a school of Raccoon Tetras is sure to become a focal point of the aquarium.