Diamond Tetra
A plain-looking juvenile that matures into something remarkable: the scales develop a sparkling silver-gold iridescence, and males grow long flowing dorsal and anal fins.
Feeding
Flake, micro-pellets and frozen foods. Undemanding.
Compatibility
Peaceful but reasonably large and active. Keep in groups of eight or more with similarly sized tankmates.
Behaviour and personality
Active mid-water shoaler. Males display their extended fins to one another.
Before you buy
Juveniles look dull and grey in shop tanks. The sparkle and the finnage take several months to develop, which is why this fish is consistently underrated.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Species | Diamond Tetra |
| Brand | Real Aquatics |
| Maturation Time | Several months |
| Group Size | 8 or more |
FAQ
How long does it take for Diamond Tetras to develop their iridescent scales and fins?
It takes several months for juvenile Diamond Tetras to develop their sparkling silver-gold scales and long flowing fins.
What kind of food do Diamond Tetras prefer?
They accept flake, micro-pellets, and frozen foods. The diet is undemanding.
Are Diamond Tetras suitable for community tanks?
Yes, they are peaceful but active. Best kept in groups of eight or more with similarly sized, non-aggressive tankmates.
Karen Murray –
Bought a few juveniles thinking they’d be plain. After six months, the silver-gold shimmer is stunning. The males have long, flowing fins now. Great for a mid-water shoal. Only downside is they need a group to look their best.
Benjamin Hill –
The fish look dull at first, but after a few months they become very attractive. I keep them in a 20-gallon tank with other peaceful tetras. They swim actively and the fin display is impressive.
Joshua Bower –
I waited to buy them because of the slow maturation. Now they’re the highlight of my tank. The iridescence is beautiful and they form a lively shoal in the middle of the water.