Neon tetra

Neon tetra

The Neon Tetra (Paracheirodon innesi) is arguably the most famous tropical aquarium fish in history. Native to the Amazon basin, it is renowned for its iridescent blue horizontal stripe that appears to “glow” under aquarium lights. The key difference between a Neon and a Cardinal is the red stripe: on a Neon Tetra, the red stripe starts in the middle of the body and goes to the tail (only half the body), leaving a silver-white belly. They are peaceful, schooling fish that grow to 3–4 cm (1.5 inches) and prefer cooler tropical water than their Cardinal cousins. Now in stock

Category: Fishes

Description

1. Origin & Popularity

Scientific Name: Paracheirodon innesi.
Origin: Clear water and blackwater streams in the Amazon basin (Peru, Brazil, Colombia).
Status: It is the “gold standard” for community aquariums. Most Neon Tetras sold today are captive-bred in Asia and are very adaptable.

2. Identification: The “Half-Red” Rule

The Stripe: They have a bright electric blue line running from the nose to the adipose fin.
The Red: The red stripe begins at the middle of the body (under the dorsal fin) and extends to the tail. The front lower half of the body is silver/white.
Comparison:
- Neon Tetra: Red stripe = Halfway.
- Cardinal Tetra: Red stripe = Full length (from eye to tail).

3. Temperament & Behavior

Schooling: They are schooling fish that feel safe in numbers. A group of 6 is the minimum, but 10–20 creates a spectacular display.
Activity: They generally stick to the middle water layer.
Peaceful: They are completely harmless and fit perfectly with other peaceful community fish like Rasboras, Guppies, and Corydoras.

4. Aquarium Care

Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons (standard).
Water Temperature: This is a key difference from Cardinals. Neons prefer cooler tropical water: 20°C – 25°C (68°F – 77°F). Keeping them in very hot water (like Discus tanks) can shorten their lifespan.
pH: 6.0 – 7.5 (Slightly acidic to neutral).
Plants: They look best in a tank with a dark background and plenty of plants, which makes their colors “pop.”

5. Diet

Omnivore: They are not picky.
Food: High-quality flake food is sufficient. However, because their mouths are small, you may need to crush the flakes slightly. They also love occasional treats of frozen daphnia or bloodworms.

6. Health Note (Neon Tetra Disease)

Sensitivity: Neons can be sensitive to poor water quality.
The Disease: They are susceptible to “Neon Tetra Disease” (Pleistophora), a parasitic condition that causes lumps, loss of color, and curved spines. There is no cure, so the best prevention is buying healthy stock and keeping the water clean.