Fishroom Spotlight – Neon Tetra (Paracheirodon innesi)

Experience level: Beginner

Max size: 2.2 cm / 0.85 inches

Minimum Tank Size: 10 gal (38 L)

Temperament: Peaceful

PH Range: 5.0-7.0

Hardiness: Very Hardy

Sex Differences: Male: More slender body – makes blue line appear straighter               Female: Rounder body – makes blue line appear bent

Temperature: 20 – 26°C / 68 – 80°F

Average Lifespan: 5-8 yrs (Can reach 10 yrs)

Diet: Omnivorous – Small or finely ground food, fresh or flake twice a day (serve what they can eat in 30 seconds). Can be offered brine shrimp, daphnia and bloodworm once or twice a week.

Aquarium Care: 25% water change fornightly.

Interesting Behaviour: This fish is very social and will shoal in minimum groups of 5, creating amazing displays of colour. Ideal choice for a community tank.

Origin:Found in South America in the Paraguay River basin, Rio Taquari, Pantanal of Mato Grosso do Sul, and Brazil. In nature, these fish inhabit the slow-moving tributaries of main rivers. These are regions of black waters beneath dense forest canopies that allow very little light to get through. Neon Tetras live in shoals mainly in the middle water layers and feed on worms and small crustaceans.