American Characins - Neon Tetra (Paracheirodon innesi)

Aquarium Atlas Vol. I

Neon Tetra, also one of the most popular species, competes with the similar but somewhat more sensitive Cardinal Tetra in popularity. These species are sometimes confused though the difference is quite easy to spot; the red band of the Cardinal Tetra (Paracheirodon axelrodi) begins at the mouth whereas it covers only the rear (lower) half in Neon Tetra as seen in the above picture.

Though a fish of tropical rainforests, this species thrives better in relatively cool water (temperatures between 20-22°C). This should not surprise you if you remember that tributaries shaded by terrestrial plants are much cooler than the wide open waters of Amazon. Neon Tetra needs accordingly a relatively cool aquarium with subdued light at the bottom and preferably a dark bottom substrate. Lots of aquatic plants may help to create shadowy zones where Neon Tetra can retreat. Under adequate conditions it is a quite long-lived species; it may even live as long as ten years.

If you consider keeping Neon Tetra in aquarium never forget that it is a social school fish. It must be kept in groups of at least 10 individuals; the more the better.

Breeding this species is fortunately much easier than breeding Cardinal Tetra. That's why most commercial fish are not wild caught but captive-bred. A small aquarium (15-20 liters) filled with soft (conductivity about 25-30 micro siemens, GH < 3°d) and acidic (pH 6.0-6.5) water is suitable for breeding. Ideal breeding temperature is about 24°C. A young (9-12 month-old), healthy couple must be selected for breeding. The breeding aquarium must be darkened by covering it with paper. Under sun light the sensitive eggs are prone to fungal infections.

The eggs hatch in about 18-24 hours depending on the temperature. After 5 days the fry begin to swim. Now they can be fed with infusoria, several times a day. In about 3-4 day the fry may begin to eat freshly hatched brine shrimps which must be further supplemented with infusoria for a while. Because they are extremely light-phobic the young fish should not be exposed to sudden changes in light intensity. Water quality must constantly be monitored; regular water changes are a must for a successful growth.