Neon Tetra ~ Paracheirodon innesi

The Neon Tetra is a small, vibrant fish famous for its iridescent blue and red stripe that runs along its body, making it a popular and captivating addition to any freshwater aquarium. Native to the blackwater streams of the Amazon Basin in South America, these peaceful fish are known for their schooling behavior and adaptability, making them ideal for beginner and experienced aquarists alike.

- Size: 1-1.5 inches  
- Lifespan: 5-8 years  
- Temperament: Peaceful, social  
- Group/Solitary: Best kept in groups of 6+  
- Food: Omnivorous, micro-pellets, flake food, live/frozen foods (daphnia, brine shrimp)  
- Water Requirements: 70-81°F, pH 5.0-7.0, soft, acidic to neutral water

Neon Tetras thrive in well-planted tanks with subdued lighting, mimicking the shaded, tannin-rich waters of their natural habitat. They should be kept in schools of six or more to reduce stress and display their best colors. These fish are peaceful and mix well with other non-aggressive tankmates. For diet, high-quality micro-pellets or flake food supplemented with live or frozen foods like brine shrimp or daphnia provides essential nutrients. Neon Tetras prefer soft, slightly acidic water, and regular water changes will keep them healthy and reduce the risk of disease.

In the wild, Neon Tetras inhabit slow-moving, heavily vegetated streams with water tinted by decaying plant matter, which gives them a natural environment filled with soft, acidic water. Their bright colors help them stay visible to each other in the dim waters, aiding their strong schooling instincts.

Fun Fact: The iridescent blue and red stripe of the Neon Tetra isn’t just for beauty—it helps them stay visible to each other in the dimly lit, murky waters of the Amazon, allowing them to maintain close groups for protection against predators.