Neon Tetra
Neon tetras are the most common aquarium fish in the world, surpassing even bettas and goldfish. They are a great choice for beginners due to their hardiness and for small tanks due to their small size. While they do just fine in smaller tanks, few things can beat a large school of 50 or more in a larger system. Due to these aspects, they have been mass produced in captivity for many years to supply the aquarium fish trade.
They have silver bodies with a bright red abdomen and a blue stripe from the caudal fin to the middle of their body. Neon tetras should be kept in groups of at least 6 fish to feel secure but more is always better.
In the wild, neon tetras can be found in soft, acidic, shallow tributaries and flooded forests with the water stained a light green or brown.
| Specifications |
|---|
| Species: Neon Tetra |
| Size: 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) |
| Water Temperature: 72–78°F (22–26°C) |
| Water pH: 5.5–6.5 |
| Group Size: Minimum 6, preferably more |
FAQ
What is the ideal group size for neon tetras?
Neon tetras should be kept in groups of at least 6 to feel secure. A larger school of 10 or more is recommended for better behavior and color display.
What type of water conditions do neon tetras prefer?
Neon tetras thrive in soft, acidic water with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5 and a temperature range of 72–78°F (22–26°C).
Are neon tetras suitable for beginners?
Yes, neon tetras are hardy and easy to care for, making them an excellent choice for beginners with small to medium-sized aquariums.
John Davidson –
I bought a school of 10 neon tetras for my 20-gallon tank. They are active and colorful, and the school behavior is very impressive. They’ve been thriving for over three months with minimal feeding adjustments.
Ryan MacLeod –
The fish arrived healthy and stayed active in my tank. I kept them in a group of 6 and noticed they swim more freely and look more vibrant than when kept alone.
Jake Hamilton –
Great addition to my aquarium. The blue stripe and red abdomen are very visible. I’ve had them for two months and they’ve adapted well to the water parameters.