Neon Tetra

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: Paracheirodon innesi
• Common Name: Neon Tetra
• Adult Size: 1.5 inches (approx. 4 cm)
• Life Expectancy: 5 to 8 years (with proper care)
• Habitat: Native to South America, specifically in the Amazon Basin (Brazil, Colombia, Peru). Found in slow-moving blackwater streams and tributaries with dense vegetation and leaf litter.

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons (for a small school; best in groups of 6+)
• Ideal Temperature: 70–81°F (21–27°C)
• pH Range: 6.0–7.0
• Water Hardness: 1–10 dGH
• Temperament: Peaceful – excellent for community tanks.
  Should always be kept in schools of at least 6–10 for security and natural behavior.

Diet & Nutrition

Omnivorous – eats:

• High-quality micro pellets or flake food
• Frozen/live brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms

• Occasional vegetable matter or algae wafers

Feed small portions 1–2 times daily.

Breeding & Spawning

• Breeding Type: Egg scatterers
• Spawning Conditions: Soft, acidic water (pH ~5.5–6.5), dim lighting, fine-leaved plants or spawning mops
• Egg Hatch Time: ~24 hours

• Fry Care: Remove adults after spawning; fry need infusoria, then baby brine shrimp

Breeding can be a bit difficult but possible in well-controlled environments.

Appearance

• Body Shape: Small, slender, torpedo-shaped

• Coloration:

  • Iridescent blue stripe running from nose to tail
  • Bright red stripe from middle of body to tail

  • Silver belly

Distinctive Features

• Iconic glowing blue and red stripes
• Ideal for nano and planted aquariums
• Active mid-dwellers and synchronized schoolers
• Their vibrant colors stand out in dark substrates or blackwater setups

• Sensitive to sudden changes in water parameters – stable water is key