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Freshwater fishNeon Tetra
Neon Tetra
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The third most popular aquarium fish in the USA market, the neon tetra is affordable, sturdy and so friendly the fish will school with other species. Should be kept in groups of six or more. Similar to cardinal tetras, they do not grow quite as large and have a horizontal red bar that extends only halfway along the body.
The bright red and blue reflective colors look wonderful as they school around in community and planted tanks.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Paracheirodon innesi |
| Origin | Upper Amazon (Peru, Colombia, Brazil); mostly farm-raised |
| Care Level | Easy |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Adult Size | Up to 1¼" |
| Lifespan | 3–5 years |
| Diet | Omnivore (tiny foods) |
| Water Temperature | 72–80°F |
| pH | 5.5–7.5 |
| Group Size | Does best in a group |
| Shipping Size | Approx. ½–1" |
Care Guide
Tank setup: These small tetras do best in a planted tank with soft, slightly acidic water, a dark substrate, driftwood, floating plants and gentle filtration. A larger school makes them more confident and colorful.
Feeding: Feed small amounts of micro pellets or crushed flake once or twice a day. They also enjoy frozen brine shrimp.
Tankmates: Keep them with other small, peaceful fish like rasboras, small tetras, pencilfish, pygmy corydoras, otocinclus and dwarf shrimp. Avoid large or boisterous fish that could eat or bully them.
Good to know: Small tetras show their best color in a large school in a planted tank with soft lighting.
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