False Neon Tetra

The False Neon Tetra is one of the most strikingly beautiful of all small tetras, displaying a brilliant turquoise-blue lateral stripe that runs nearly the full length of its body with only a modest red patch near the tail. At just 2.5 cm, it is smaller than the true neon tetra and requires more exacting water conditions to thrive and show its best color. Native to the slow-moving, tannin-stained blackwater streams of Venezuela and Colombia, this species is accustomed to extremely soft, acidic water with low conductivity. In aquaria, it performs best in a biotope-style setup with dark substrate, driftwood, dried leaves, and dim lighting filtered through floating plants. The blue stripe fluoresces remarkably under soft lighting, making a school of twenty or more a breathtaking display. False Neon Tetras are peaceful community fish that do well with other small, non-aggressive species. They can be shy and are easily outcompeted for food by larger tankmates. Feeding them a variety of fine foods including micro-pellets, crushed flakes, and live or frozen baby brine shrimp and micro-worms will keep them healthy and vibrant.