Neon Tetra (.75-1")

Scientific Name:

Paracheirodon innesi

Maximum Size and Lifespan:

• Size: Up to 1.5 inches (4 cm)

• Lifespan: Typically 3–5 years, occasionally longer in ideal conditions

Recommended Aquarium Size, Water Changes, and Care:

• Tank Size: 10 gallons minimum for a small school (6+ fish); 20+ gallons preferred for larger groups and other tank mates

• Water Changes: 20-40% weekly; stable, clean conditions are essential

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 75–82°F (21–27°C)

• pH: 5.5–7.5 (slightly acidic preferred)

• Filtration: Sponge or gentle filter; avoid strong flow

• Lighting: Moderate; dimmed or diffused lighting preferred

Tank Setup:

• Dense vegetation, driftwood, and leaf litter enhance natural feel and reduce stress

• Dark substrate brings out vibrant colors

• Provide open swimming space in the mid-water column

Tankmates:

Neon Tetras are peaceful, schooling fish and thrive in calm community setups with similarly sized, non-aggressive species such as:

• Small tetras (Cardinal, Ember, Rummy-nose),Corydoras catfish, Dwarf gouramis (Honey, Sparkling), Otocinclus, Harlequin rasboras, Bushynose pleco, etc.

• Avoid fin-nippers or large predatory fish like large barbs or angelfish

Diet:

• Type: Omnivore

• In Captivity:

  • Xtreme Nano pellets and Community Crave flakes

  • Frozen/ Live Baby Brine Shrimp
    

Feed once or twice daily in small portions they can finish in a couple of minutes.

Overview:

Neon Tetras are iconic aquarium fish, known for their striking iridescent blue stripe and bright red lower body—though the red only extends from the belly to the tail (unlike the full-length red of Cardinal Tetras). They are peaceful and must be kept in groups of at least 6–10, ideally 10+, to feel safe and exhibit natural schooling behavior.

Although hardy once acclimated, they are best kept in established aquariums with stable parameters, as they can be sensitive to sudden fluctuations or new tank syndrome.

Natural Environment:

• Habitat: Found in slow-moving blackwater streams of the Amazon Basin, including parts of Brazil, Colombia, and Peru

• Water Conditions: Soft, acidic waters rich in tannins from decomposing organic matter

• Surroundings: Shaded areas with dense vegetation, submerged roots, and dark substrates

• Wild Diet: Tiny invertebrates, insect larvae, algae, and organic detritus

Breeding:

• Difficulty: Moderate to difficult

• Spawning Setup:

  • Separate breeding tank with very soft water (pH ~5.5–6.0, temp ~75°F / 24°C)

  • Dim lighting or complete darkness

  • Fine-leaved plants or spawning mops for egg-laying

• Spawning Behavior:

  • Egg scatterers with no parental care

  • Remove adults after spawning to prevent egg consumption

  • Eggs hatch in ~24 hours; fry free-swimming after 3–5 days

Fry Care:

• Initial food: Live baby brine shrimp 

• Keep light very low during first few days as fry are light-sensitive