Neon Tetra

• ExerciseModerate

  An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.

• GroomingEasy tank upkeep

  No grooming here — steady water quality and routine tank care do it.

• Living spaceNano-tank friendly

  Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.

• Owner experienceSome experience helps

  A little know-how makes life smoother.

• Commitment5–8 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Ich (white spot) · Fin rot · Skin conditions

The neon tetra (Paracheirodon innesi) comes from the shaded blackwater and clearwater streams of the western Amazon basin in Peru, Colombia and Brazil. It is a nano fish of just 3–4 cm and, despite its fragile reputation, can live 5–8 years in stable conditions. Its glowing blue-and-red stripe is structural colour that shimmers as the school turns. Neons are shoaling fish that must be kept in groups of at least six — ideally ten or more — in a tank of 60 litres or larger. They evolved in soft, acidic water, so aim for 20–26°C, a pH of 5.0–7.0, dark substrate and dense planting with driftwood to bring out their colour and calm them. Avoid adding them to a brand-new, uncycled tank. These micro-omnivores accept fine flake, micro-pellets and small frozen foods like daphnia and cyclops. Peaceful to a fault, they suit community tanks with other small, gentle species but can be eaten by large fish. Their signature affliction is neon tetra disease (a Pleistophora parasite), alongside ich and skin infections; buying healthy stock and maintaining pristine water are the best prevention.

• How active is a Neon Tetra?

  Moderate. An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.

• How much maintenance does a Neon Tetra need?

  Easy tank upkeep. No grooming here — steady water quality and routine tank care do it.

• What tank size does a Neon Tetra need?

  Nano-tank friendly. Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.

• Is a Neon Tetra a good fit for first-time owners?

  Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.

• How long do Neon Tetra live?

  5–8 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Neon Tetra?

  Keep an eye out for Ich (white spot), Fin rot, Skin conditions. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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