Neon Tetra Fish (Paracheirodon innesi)

The Neon Tetra is one of the most popular freshwater aquarium fish in the world. Known for its vibrant iridescent blue stripe and bright neon red coloration, this small schooling fish instantly adds movement and color to any aquarium.

Neon Tetras have a shimmering silver body with a glowing blue stripe running across the upper body and a vivid red stripe along the lower half. Their striking colors and peaceful nature make them a favorite choice for community aquariums, planted tanks, and nano aquariums.

Because of their small size and gentle temperament, Neon Tetras are ideal for both beginner and experienced aquarium hobbyists.

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Neon Tetra Behavior & Schooling

Neon Tetras are schooling fish, which means they feel safest and display their best colors when kept in groups. When kept in schools, they swim together in synchronized patterns that create a beautiful display of moving color in the aquarium.

For best results, Neon Tetras should be kept in groups of at least 6 or more. At Betta USA Aquatic, we offer them in convenient group sizes of 3, 6, 9, and 12 fish.

They are extremely peaceful and do well with other small non-aggressive community fish, including rasboras, guppies, small tetras, shrimp, and peaceful bottom dwellers.

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Ideal Aquarium Setup for Neon Tetras

Neon Tetras thrive in well-established aquariums with stable water conditions. A planted aquarium with driftwood, rocks, and shaded areas helps recreate their natural environment and encourages natural schooling behavior.

Recommended plants include:

• Java Fern
• Moss varieties
• Cabomba
• Moneywort
• Other mid-level aquatic plants

Neon Tetras usually swim in the middle and upper levels of the aquarium.

⚠️ They should not be added to newly set up aquariums because they can be sensitive to unstable water conditions.

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Neon Tetra Care Guide

Scientific Name: Paracheirodon innesi
Temperament: Peaceful schooling fish
Care Level: Easy
Diet: Omnivore

Neon Tetras will accept a variety of foods including:

• Quality fish flakes
• Micro pellets
• Brine shrimp
• Daphnia
• Freeze-dried bloodworms
• Tubifex worms

Their colors may appear slightly dimmer at night, which is a normal behavior and not a sign of illness.

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Neon Tetra Tank Requirements

Temperature: 68 – 80°F (20 – 27°C)
pH: 5.0 – 7.0
KH: 4 – 10 dKH
Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons

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Size Information

Average Adult Size: 1.5 – 2 inches (3.8 – 5 cm)
Typical Sale Size: 0.25 – 1 inch

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Origin

Most Neon Tetras available today are tank-bred, though the species originates from freshwater streams in Colombia, Peru, and Brazil.