Neon tetra

Neon Tetra (Paracheirodon innesi):

• Appearance: One of the most iconic aquarium fish, featuring a bright horizontal neon blue stripe over a silver-white belly, with a vibrant red stripe that extends from the middle of the body to the tail.

• Size: Small and slender, typically reaching about 1 – 1.5 inches (2.5 – 4 cm).

• Lifespan: Usually lives for 3 – 5 years with proper care.

• Water Temperature: Prefers slightly cooler tropical water, ideally 20°C – 26°C (68°F – 78°F).

• pH Level: They thrive in soft, slightly acidic water with a pH between 6.0 – 7.0.

• Diet: Omnivorous. They eat almost any small food, including high-quality flakes, micro-pellets, and frozen treats like brine shrimp or daphnia.

• Temperament: Very peaceful and social. They must be kept in schools to feel safe and show their best colors.

• Tank Setup: They look spectacular in planted aquariums with dim lighting and a dark substrate, which makes their “neon” glow stand out.

Pro Tip: Neon Tetras are sensitive to “new tank syndrome.” It is best to add them to a well-established aquarium with stable water parameters. To keep them happy, always maintain a group of at least 6–10 fish.