Neon Tetra

Neon Tetra is the best fish to be kept in planted tanks. If kept in captivity, it can reach the age of ten years or even more but a majority of Neon Tetras live a shorter life. This fish is inexpensive and strong. It is amongst the very first species of fish which were bought by the aquarists who were novices. Community aquariums are best adorned by the shoals of Neon Tetras. If you are eager to know about Neon Tetra, the following piece of writing will help you.

Geographical distribution

They are found in South America, the Paraguay River basin; Rio Taquari, Pantanal of Mato Grosso do Sul, and Upper Amazon Brazil.

Diet

Neon Tetras are omnivorous in nature. Flakes, granules, brine shrimp, tubifex or frozen foods are relished by it. It will be good if you feed it twice a day.

Breeding

Spawning occurs among fine-leaved vegetation in very soft, acidic conditions. Subdued lighting is recommended after spawning since the eggs are reportedly sensitive to light. Hatching occurs after 24-36 hours at around 24 degree C (75 degree F). Once the fry become free-swimming, they should be fed on either liquid food or the finest solid foods for a few days, followed by larger foods, such as newly hatched Brine Shrimp nauplii (larvae).

Description

Neon Tetras are shoalers and therefore, should not be kept either single or in pairs. They are at their best in shoals when kept in peat-stained water and against a dark background. Fine-leaved plants should be included as part of the tank decor. Although this species will swim at all levels, it tends to prefer the middle and lower reaches of the tank.

Physical Characteristics

Body of Neon Tetra is spindle shaped. Its nose is blunt. A shining blue line runs along every side of the body. A red stripe also adorns the body of Neon Tetra. This red line runs from the mid part of the body to the caudal fin’s base. Dark olive green shade colors the side that is over the blue strip. Its anal fin is nearly transparent and its belly has silver color. When fish rests in a shelter, it looks dim as its bright colors turn off.

Tank Set Up

The suggested aquarium size is at least 60 cms or 24 inches. While setting up an aquarium for Neon Tetra, you must try to imitate its natural habitat. A planted aquarium with ample hiding places will make your Neon Tetra happy. You should also provide an open area where it can freely swim. Use dim light and see that the bottom consists of a dark substrate.

Social Behavior

Neon Tetra has a non aggressive temperament. It is a good tank mate for peaceful fish species having approximately the similar size. Care should be taken to never combine Neon Tetra with bigger fish which can take it as prey or not even with aggressive fish which can bully this peaceful fish. It prefers to live in groups and if you keep five or more Neon Tetras together, it will be good. A large group of Neon Tetra makes the whole scene of the aquarium vibrant and colorful. Sometimes, Neon Tetras form groups with their close relatives-Cardinal Tetras.

It must be kept in mind that if your Neon Tetra is not getting back to its bright colors even after some time in the light, there is possibility that it is stressed or ill. Neon Tetra takes a good share in the popularity of Cardinal Tetra. If you want to have flamboyant, peaceful and small community fish for your aquarium, Neon Tetra is the best choice.