Neon tetra
Paracheirodon innesi
The neon tetra is a small characid native to the blackwaters of the Amazon, famous for its electric-blue band and its red stripe. It is one of the most popular aquarium fish in the world. It lives in a shoal and brings a lot of movement to the community aquarium.
Parameters
- Water type
- Freshwater
- Min volume
- 60 L
- Temperature
- 20–26 °C
- pH
- 5–7
- Hardness (GH)
- 1–10 °GH
- Adult size
- 4 cm
- Lifespan
- 5 years
- Diet
- Omnivore
- Temperament
- Paisible, grégaire
- Difficulty
- Intermédiaire
Environment
Provide at least 60 litres and keep it absolutely in a shoal of 10 individuals or more to limit its stress. It enjoys soft, slightly acidic water (pH 5 to 7), between 20 and 26 °C, with dense planting, roots and subdued lighting that show off its colours. Well-filtered, stable water is essential, as the species tolerates parameter spikes poorly.
Feeding
An omnivore, it readily accepts quality flakes and fine granules. Vary its diet with live or frozen prey (brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms) to support its vitality and its colours. Offer small amounts several times a day rather than one large meal.
Tips & tankmates
Keeping a neon alone or in twos or threes is a common mistake that causes stress and disease. Avoid companions that are too large, such as the angelfish, which may regard it as prey. Introduce it into an already mature and cycled aquarium, as it is susceptible to neon tetra disease (rapid discolouration and death).
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Information provided for guidance only; it may vary between individuals and conditions. If in doubt about an animal's health, consult a vet.