Neon Tetra

Paracheirodon innesi, the Neon Tetra, has been the world's most popular aquarium fish for decades. Native to the western Amazon in Peru and Colombia, its vibrant electric-blue horizontal stripe above a vivid red patch extending to the tail creates an unmistakable appearance. When kept in large groups in a planted aquarium, the synchronized schooling behaviour creates one of the most breathtaking displays in the freshwater hobby.

Water: 20–26°C, pH 5.5–7.0, soft and slightly acidic water preferred. Tank: 40 L minimum; planted aquarium with open swimming space and dark substrate. Feeding: Micro-pellets, quality flake, baby brine shrimp, micro-worms and daphnia. Behaviour: Peaceful tight-schooling species; keep 10+; most spectacular in groups of 20+. Compatibility: Ideal with other small peaceful fish — corydoras, small rasboras, pencilfish, dwarf cichlids.