A see-through body that shows the silver swim bladder and the spine, finished with black, yellow and white flags on the fins. Coastal in origin, so it copes with harder water than most tetras.
Temperament
Common health issues
- Ich (white spot)
- Fin rot
- Swim bladder disorder
Care at a glance
- ExerciseModerate
An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.
- GroomingRoutine tank care
Weekly partial water changes keep them in top shape.
- Living spaceNano-tank friendly
Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.
- Owner experienceSome experience helps
A little know-how makes life smoother.
- Commitment4โ6 years
Plan for a long, loving relationship.
Health to watch: Ich (white spot) ยท Fin rot ยท Swim bladder disorder
๐ Care guide
The X-Ray Tetra or Pristella (Pristella maxillaris) comes from coastal rivers of Venezuela, Guyana and Brazil and reaches about 4 to 5 cm. Its body is translucent enough to show the backbone and the silvery swim bladder, and the dorsal and anal fins carry a black bar between yellow and white. Because it occurs in coastal waters it tolerates harder, more alkaline conditions than most South American tetras, and even slightly brackish water in the wild. A shoal of eight or more needs 80 litres or more at 22-28C, pH 6.0 to 8.0, which covers most tap water without adjustment. Feed flake, micro pellets and frozen daphnia, cyclops and brine shrimp. It is peaceful, does not nip and is one of the easiest tetras for a first community tank, working well with platies, corydoras, rasboras and dwarf gouramis. Give it planting and some shade, since its colours look washed out under harsh light over a pale substrate, and keep the group large so it shoals confidently rather than lurking at the back.
Frequently asked questions
How active is a X-Ray Tetra?
Moderate. An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.
How much maintenance does a X-Ray Tetra need?
Routine tank care. Weekly partial water changes keep them in top shape.
What tank size does a X-Ray Tetra need?
Nano-tank friendly. Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.
Is a X-Ray Tetra a good fit for first-time owners?
Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.
How long do X-Ray Tetra live?
4โ6 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.
What health issues affect the X-Ray Tetra?
Keep an eye out for Ich (white spot), Fin rot, Swim bladder disorder. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.
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