The Neon Tetra is one of the most popular and recognisable freshwater fish, admired for its vibrant blue and red colouration and peaceful schooling behaviour. Native to the slow-moving blackwater streams of the Amazon Basin, these small, active fish bring life and movement to any aquarium. Their hardiness and adaptability make them a great choice for beginner and experienced aquarists alike.
Product Details
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Species: Paracheirodon innesi
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Common Names: Neon Tetra
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Origin: South America (Peru, Colombia, Brazil)
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Light Requirements: Low to Moderate
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Diet: Omnivorous (Eats a variety of small foods)
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Maximum Size: 4 cm (1.5 inches)
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Temperament: Peaceful, Active Schooling Fish
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Care Level: Easy
Aquarium Setup
Neon Tetras thrive in a well-planted aquarium with shaded areas and soft, slightly acidic water. A dark substrate and gentle lighting help enhance their colours and mimic their natural habitat. They are best kept in groups of at least six, but larger schools of ten or more will display more natural behaviour and reduce stress.
A minimum tank size of 40 litres (10 gallons) is recommended, with gentle filtration to avoid strong currents that could stress these small fish.
Water Parameters
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Temperature: 22°C – 26°C
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pH: 5.0 – 7.0
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Hardness: 1 – 10 dGH
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Ammonia/Nitrites: 0 ppm
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Nitrates: <20 ppm
Growth and Maintenance
Neon Tetras are low-maintenance fish but require stable water conditions. Regular water changes and careful monitoring of ammonia and nitrate levels help keep them healthy.
They are omnivores and do best with a varied diet, including high-quality micro pellets, crushed flakes, and occasional treats of frozen or live foods such as daphnia, bloodworms, and brine shrimp.
Care Tips
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Keep in a school of at least six to promote natural behaviour.
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Provide a planted environment with shaded areas and a dark substrate.
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Maintain stable water conditions and avoid sudden parameter changes.
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Offer a varied diet to enhance their colour and health.
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Avoid keeping them with aggressive or fin-nipping species.
Compatibility
Neon Tetras are peaceful community fish that do well with other small, non-aggressive species, including:
Avoid keeping them with large fish, such as Angelfish or aggressive species that may view them as prey.
Availability
Neon Tetras (Paracheirodon innesi) are available at Cradle Coast Pet & Aquarium. Contact us for availability and bring the beauty of these vibrant schooling fish to your aquarium today.
Disclaimer: Due to variations within species and age, your fish may not look identical to the image provided.
