Glow Tetra

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: Gymnocorymbus ternetzi
• Common Name: Glow Tetra (also referred to as GloFish® Tetra when genetically modified for fluorescence)
• Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)
• Life Expectancy: 3 – 5 years (with proper care)
• Habitat:
  • Native: South America (Paraguay and Guaporé River Basins)

  • In the wild, they live in slow-moving rivers and streams with dense vegetation and dim lighting.

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons (for a small group; larger is better for schools)
• Ideal Temperature: 22°C – 28°C (72°F – 82°F)
• pH Range: 6.0 – 7.5
• Water Hardness: 4 – 18 dGH

• Temperament: Peaceful and social; best kept in schools of 6 or more

Diet & Nutrition

• Omnivorous
• Will accept:
  • Flake food
  • Micro pellets
  • Frozen/live foods (like brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia)

• A varied diet enhances their color and vitality

Breeding & Spawning

• Egg scatterers
• Can breed in a separate breeding tank
• No parental care; remove adults after spawning to prevent egg predation
• Eggs hatch in about 24–36 hours

• Fry can be fed infusoria or liquid fry food

Appearance

• Body Shape: Laterally compressed, round-bodied tetra
• Coloration: Glow tetras are genetically modified to fluoresce in bright neon colors like green, blue, orange, purple, red, and pink.

• Fins: They usually have semi-transparent or faintly tinted fins.

Distinctive Features

• Fluorescent glow under blue/actinic lighting
• More vibrant than standard Black Skirt Tetras (the species from which Glow Tetras are derived)

• Popular for community tanks due to peaceful nature and bright colors