Neon Tetra

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Scientific Name

Paracheirodon innesi

Min. Tank Size

25 gallons

Personality

Peaceful

Temperature

73-82°F

pH

5.0-8.0/0-25°dGH

Size

1.5"

Diet

Omnivore

Breeding

Egglayer

Compatibility

Best kept in shoals with 6 or more of their own species – 12 -15 would make a better display; can be kept with other Tetras, Pencilfish, Hatchetfish, Dwarf Cichlids, Rasboras, Barbs, Anabantids and Corydoras.

Neon Tetra

One of the most recognizeable species of Tetra in the aquarium trade, Neon Tetras are also one of the most popular species. These fish are brightly colored, having light blue coloration on their backs over white bellies. The most striking feature of these fishes is the iridescent blue stripe running horizontally from the nose to the base of the tail, accompanied by a red stripe underneath which runs about halfway along the body. Neon Tetras are native to Brazil, Peru and Columbia where they can be found in forested areas and slow-moving blackwater tributaries. These fish are commercially bred in large numbers and wild-caught specimens are rare in the aquarium hobby.

Tank Set-Up

These Tetras are highly adaptable and often recommended for new aquarium hobbyists. Neon Tetras display their best coloration in heavily planted tanks and in slightly acidic water. These fish can also be kept in a biotype setup with sand substrate, driftwood branches and dim lighting to show off their colors. Because they are a peaceful species, Neon Tetras are well suited to the general community tank. These fish thrive when kept in groups with 6 or more of their own species and can also be kept with other South American species like Pencilfish, Hatchetfish and Dwarf Cichlids.

Feeding

Neon Tetras are micropredators by nature, feeding on small invertebrates in the wild. In the home aquarium, however, these fish are not picky eaters – they will eat almost anything you give them. Offer these fish a staple diet of high-quality flakes or granules supplemented with small live and frozen foods such as Daphnia, brine shrimp and Artemia. To ensure the best health and coloration of this species feed a varied diet on a regular basis.

Breeding

Like their relatives the Cardinal Tetra, Neon Tetras can be difficult to breed. The water in the breeding tank should be kept soft and slightly acidic, having a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. These fish are best spawned in pairs and should be conditioned on small live foods. If spawning does occur, it will likely happen in the evening and the eggs will hatch between 24 and 36 hours later.