Neon Tetra care guide
Neon Tetra (Paracheirodon innesi) — minimum tank 40 L, temperature 20-26 °C, pH 5-7. Peaceful middle-water species.
Overview
The Neon Tetra (Paracheirodon innesi) is a small characid native to the western and northern Amazon basin. It is identified by an iridescent blue lateral line and a red band running along the lower half of the body. The species is among the most widely traded freshwater aquarium fish in the world.
Taxonomy
- Family: Characidae
- Genus: Paracheirodon
- Scientific name: Paracheirodon innesi
Habitat
In the wild Paracheirodon innesi inhabits soft, acidic blackwater and clearwater tributaries of the upper Amazon in southeastern Colombia, eastern Peru and western Brazil. It avoids fast-flowing whitewater rivers and is typically found in shaded, slow-moving sections of small streams with leaf litter and submerged roots.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 40 L (10.6 US gal)
- Adult size: 2-4 cm
- Temperature: 20-26 °C (68-79 °F)
- pH: 5-7
- GH: 1-10 °dGH
- Water flow: low
- Lifespan: 3-5 years
- School size: ≥6 individuals
Diet
Paracheirodon innesi is an opportunistic omnivore. Wild specimens feed on small invertebrates, insect larvae and fine plant material drifting in the water column. In aquaria, micro-pellets, crushed flakes and small frozen foods such as daphnia, cyclops or brine shrimp are accepted readily; feed in small portions twice daily.
Compatibility
A peaceful mid-water schooling species. Maintain a group of at least six individuals to reduce stress and encourage natural shoaling behaviour. Suitable tank mates include other small characins such as Cardinal Tetra, peaceful catfish such as Corydoras and Otocinclus, and small rasboras. Avoid large or aggressive species (Oscar, adult Angelfish, Betta) that may predate on or harass the school.
Breeding
Captive breeding requires very soft, acidic water (GH below 2, pH around 5.5), dim lighting and a separate species tank with fine-leaved plants. Females scatter adhesive eggs which are sensitive to light and fungal infection; parents do not guard the brood. Fry hatch within roughly 24 hours and free-swim a few days later.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern. The species is widely distributed and most aquarium specimens today are commercially captive-bred.