Pristella Tetra (Pristella maxillaris) Care Guide

A hardy, translucent tetra with distinctive yellow, black, and white banded dorsal and anal fins. Its semi-transparent body reveals the internal organs, earning it the name X-Ray Tetra.

Overview

Pristella maxillaris is a species in the family Characidae. A hardy, translucent tetra with distinctive yellow, black, and white banded dorsal and anal fins. Its semi-transparent body reveals the internal organs, earning it the name X-Ray Tetra. Adaptable to a wide range of water conditions.

Taxonomy

Family: Characidae
Genus: Pristella
Scientific name: Pristella maxillaris
Other names: X-Ray Tetra
Origin: South America, Venezuela, Guyana

Habitat

Widely distributed across the Orinoco and Amazon basins and coastal drainages of the Guianas. Inhabits a broad range of habitats including clear, white and blackwater, and tolerates slightly brackish coastal waters. The only species in the genus Pristella.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 60 L
Temperature: 22-28 °C
pH: 6-8
GH: 4-20 °dGH
Water flow: low
Adult size: 3-5 cm
Lifespan: 3-5 years
Recommended group size: ≥ 6
Difficulty: beginner

Diet

Classified as omnivore. Recommended feeding frequency: 2x daily. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.

Compatibility

Temperament: peaceful
Swimming level: middle
Compatible tank mates: Neon Tetra, Corydoras, Cherry Barb, Platy, Harlequin Rasbora
Avoid with: Oscar, Large Cichlids

Breeding

Breeding strategy: egg-scatterer
Breeding difficulty: intermediate