Gold Neon Tetra For Sale? The 224 Detailed Answer

Gold tetras from the large tetra family are really pretty to look at, even though many of them aren’t made of gold but silver. Even the silvery gray specimens are gorgeous, with an iridescent shimmer that says sometimes blue and sometimes green.

Since they travel in flocks of 6 or more, you’re likely to see some color variety. If you’re lucky enough to get your hands on a golden tetra, you know it came from the wild and was exposed to a parasite called the trematode. The golden color comes from the golden tetra’s body defense response and will not be present in captive bred golden tetras, nor in the offspring of wild born golden tetras.

These small fish can be handled by the beginning enthusiast, but they are more prone to skin disorders than some other aquarium fish. For that reason, I’m not ruling them out for beginners, but acknowledge that these beauties might be better suited to an intermediate hobbyist.

Although they are only about 1 ½ inches tall, you will need a larger tank (20 gallons at least) as you will be housing at least 6 to keep them happy and safe in their flock.

I highly recommend these shy little fish for your community aquarium. They are fun to look at and relatively easy to care for.

In this article I will discuss everything you need to know about golden tetras. I’ll cover some background, breeding requirements, nutritional needs, health concerns, and what you need to provide them with a suitable habitat in which to thrive.

Facts and overview of golden tetras

Category Rating Care Level: Beginner to Advanced Temperament: Peaceful Color Shape: Black, Gold, Silver, Yellow Lifespan: 3-4 years Size: 1.5 inches Diet: Omnivore Family: Characidae Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons Tank Design: Freshwater with driftwood Compatibility: Peaceful community

Golden tetras are native to the South American coast, particularly the streams, flood plains, rivers and tributaries of Brazil, French Guiana, Guyana, Peru and Suriname.

Their different coloring has caused confusion for taxonomists. Gold tetras, scientific name Hemigrammus rodwayi, are not naturally gold-colored at all, but silver-grey. They have some colors in their fins (black, red, gold, white) but their bodies are definitely silvery gray.

However, in some parts of their natural habitat, golden tetras are exposed to the dangerous trematode parasite. The presence of the trematode is the catalyst for a skin reaction in the fish where guanine stains protecting them from the parasite produce a beautiful golden color.

When scientists first discovered this golden hue, they reassigned the golden Hemigrammus rodwayi to a new species, but were wrong. So when you hear golden tetras referred to as Hemigrammus armstrongi, rest assured they are the same fish. Hemigrammus armstrongi is considered a synonym for Hemigrammus rodwayi.

This also means that you may end up with a gold tetra (also known as a golden tetra or brass tetra) that is not made of gold at all. And if you’re breeding in captivity, your golden tetras will definitely be silvery gray.

Golden tetras are a type of tetra that make up one of the largest groups of aquarium fish. There are approximately 1,674 species of tetras.

Typical behavior

Gold tetras are very peaceful and shy. They are not aggressive at all. Since they are slow swimmers and can easily be tricked into eating, you need to make sure they are getting enough food.

Golden tetras get anxious when there is too much activity or when they hear loud noises, so be careful where you place the aquarium.

Also known as x-ray tetras because of their bone structure, golden tetras pick up sound waves through their bone structure, giving them excellent hearing.

You can expect your golden tetra to live in your community aquarium for 3-4 years; In the wild, they can live up to 5 years.

Looks

Golden tetras are named for the protective secretion guanine that gives their silvery bodies a golden hue. In captivity, golden tetras reach about 1½ inches (4 cm); In the wild, they grow slightly larger.

In addition to the gold dust coloration, golden tetras have a caudal fin that has a black spot in the middle and a red spot on top. Their dorsal fins are golden with white speckles. They also have a soft dorsal fin that is red.

distinguish males and females

You can recognize the male by his anal fin, which has a white spot. The females are conspicuous by their heavier appearance when they are ready to lay eggs.

Habitat and tank conditions

Aquarium fish always thrive when you can recreate their natural habitat. Even fish that are bred in captivity appreciate the conditions in the wild, even if they’ve never seen them before. In their natural habitat, golden tetras enjoy slow-flowing brackish water. Creating these conditions for your golden tetra will lead to the optimal welfare of your fish.

In terms of the aquascape, golden tetras do well in a sandy bottom, as they like in the wild. Don’t skimp on driftwood and dried leaves; They like to find adventure around the forest area, and the leaves and driftwood also release tannins that color the water, making it more acidic and also giving the golden tetra a sense of security.

Pro tip: The dried leaves need to be replaced every few weeks to keep them from rotting and polluting the aquarium.

They will need a water filter to keep the tank clean, but remember they are used to slow moving waters so make sure the filter you choose doesn’t create a strong current. If the water appears too fast, you can put a plant or decoration in front of the filter to disperse the flow.

You can also put some peat (suitable for aquariums) in the filter to create the water tint. Speaking of coloring, golden tetras prefer a dimly lit tank, so don’t get too much artificial light and be aware of the natural and artificial light sources surrounding the tank.

Although plants are not found in the golden tetra’s natural environment, they can help filter the light and also add to the aesthetics of the aquarium.

water conditions

You should do a 50% water change every two weeks to keep the aquarium spotlessly clean. Gold tetras like warm, soft and acidic water.

The optimal parameters to ensure the best quality of life for golden tetras:

pH values: 5.5-7.0

Water hardness: 3-8 dKH

Water Temperature: 25° to 28°C (77°F to 82.4°F)

What size aquarium do you need?

I recommend at least a 20 gallon tank. Although golden tetras are small, they need to be kept in groups of at least 6, so you’ll need enough space for the group to swim around comfortably; If there are other fish in the community aquarium, you need to get bigger.

How many can be stored per gallon?

You could keep 6 golden tetras in a 20 gallon tank. If you have a larger swarm you can try a 30 gallon tank.

tankmates

Golden tetras mix well with other peaceful fish. Avoid pairing them with high-energy fish that will stress them out, and don’t choose tankmates that are much larger than them.

You should also choose tankmates that prefer the same type of soft, warm, acidic water.

Matching tankmates

keep gold tetras together

Gold tetras are schooling fish and must be kept in groups. I would recommend at least 6 people, but you can make a larger group.

diet

High-quality feed is important to golden tetras. They are omnivores, so they need a combination of vegetables and protein to complete a varied diet. They will happily munch on tropical flakes and pellets, but consider supplementing with spirulina for green and black worms, mosquito larvae, artemia and daphnia for animal protein.

Make sure you don’t overfeed them by only giving what they can eat in about 3 minutes. If they overeat, they’ll get bloated, and you’ll have to clean the water more often because more consumption equals more waste.

Care

Like all freshwater fish, golden tetras are susceptible to parasitic, bacterial, and viral infections. Therefore, the key to caring for golden tetras is eliminating stress: clean water, proper water parameters, good friends, a healthy diet, and a soothing habitat.

Stress increases the chances of golden tetras getting sick – just like humans! Providing an environment where they can enjoy life with minimal stress will go a long way towards preventing disease. Clean water prevents disease in two ways; It not only reduces stress but also reduces the harmful bacteria and parasites present in the water source.

Maintaining the right water parameters (see above) also reduces stress, as temperatures that are too hot or too cold, pH values ​​that are too acidic or too basic, or water that is too hard or too soft put physical stress on your fish. Gold tetras need warm, acidic and soft water.

Another stress killer is making sure they are surrounded by friends. Golden tetras are schooling fish and should be in a group of at least 6 animals to keep them happy and safe.

Eating a balanced diet is also important (remember how stressed out you feel when you’re on a sugar high or eating too much fried food!).

Finally, providing an appealing aquascape helps reduce stress. Tranquility is encouraged by restoring their natural environment. Adding some driftwood and plants will keep them happy and provide hiding places to keep them feeling safe.

Certainly, stress cannot be completely eliminated and clean water does not protect your golden tetra from all diseases. In fact, golden tetras are more susceptible to disease than many other freshwater fish. Two of the most common are:

Me: Me (also known as Ick or White Spot Disease) is a very common parasitic disease found in freshwater aquariums. It comes from an eyelash parasite, the presence of which is revealed by the visible white spots it leaves on your fish.

I can be fatal if not treated promptly and it reproduces very quickly. You should treat with a special Ich drug as soon as possible. Note that most Ich medications contain copper, which can be harmful to some of your aquarium inhabitants.

Skinworms: Skinworms or gillworms are also very common in freshwater aquariums. Flukes are caused by parasites that look like hooked worms; With these hooks, they attach to the skin of the fish, interfering with their ability to take in oxygen. In addition, the holes created by the hooks can lead to secondary bacterial infections.

Pro tip: Because golden tetras are so susceptible to disease, if you monitor them closely you can often spot the presence of diseases early enough to treat them. They could be your tank’s saviors!

The meaning of quarantine

Anyone and anything can introduce fungi, parasites and bacteria to your home aquarium. Because these diseases spread so quickly, your happy aquarium home may soon be overwhelmed with life-threatening risks to your beloved aquatic friends.

I highly recommend you save yourself and your pets a lot of headaches by quarantining all new arrivals. Whether it’s a new golden tetra, a plant, a piece of wood, or a store-bought den, quarantine them for two weeks before adding them to your community tank.

Even the most observant of eyes will miss some of these tiny creatures or their eggs, which can lead to a rapid and runaway infestation.

breed

Golden tetras lay eggs and breeding them in a home tank is fairly easy, although you will need a dedicated breeding tank. The breeding tank should be at least 10 gallons and populated with an equal number of males and females – 6 of each sex is a good measure.

You should stock the tank with green plants and/or dental floss for the females to lay their eggs on. Other than that, you don’t have to do anything special to encourage reproduction. The special rearing tank is mainly used to protect the young fish.

However, it should be noted that golden tetras prefer soft water with a pH of around 6.0 and warm water around 80°F (26.7°C) for optimal spawning.

Pro tip: Golden tetras get their rich color from the special defense mechanisms that are made to protect them from the parasites that endanger them in the wild. Your brood bred at home will likely not have the golden hue.

After the eggs are fertilized, the males and females should be removed from the breeding tank. In less than 24 hours the eggs will begin to hatch and the fry will be swimming happily in a few days. Until they can handle brine shrimp and microworms, feed the brood infusoria.

Pro Tip: As Gold Tetra fry is sensitive to light, try to keep the tank as dark as possible. Keep the breeding tank in a place where there is no direct sunlight.

Are golden tetras suitable for your aquarium?

Golden tetras are a good choice for a community aquarium: they are easy to care for and survivable. As long as the water is kept clean, intermediate beginner breeders should have success raising golden tetras.

Plus, they’re easy to breed if you have a separate breeding tank. While caring for them does not require advanced skills, golden tetras will still attract the attention of experienced aquarists.

Do you have experiences with golden tetras that you would like to share with others? Do you have further questions about golden tetras? We’d love to hear from you in the comments section below.

FAQ

What is the Average Lifespan of Golden Tetras?

In captivity you can expect your Golden Tetras to live 3-4 years provided they are well cared for and not in a community tank with larger or more aggressive fish.

I’m just starting my aquarium hobby. Would these fish be a good choice?

While caring for golden tetras is not overly difficult, I would not recommend these fish to a complete beginner. They have a lower immune system than many other aquarium fish and are more likely to suffer from skin diseases.

I would wait until you’ve dealt with a round of ich or flukes on other fish before becoming a school of golden tetra.

Are my golden tetras vegetarian? You are so small; I can’t imagine them eating meat.

That’s a great question. Golden tetras are omnivores, so they require a combination of plant and animal matter. However, it’s not the kind of meat you would expect. Small animal proteins from blackworms, mosquito larvae, artemia and daphnia will meet their meat needs.

Do I need a separate rearing tank for golden tetras?

Yes. I recommend a 10 gallon grow tank. Once the eggs are fertilized, you should remove the parent fish and feed the fry until they are large enough to accommodate the community tank.

I have little space for my aquarium. Do golden tetras fit well in a smaller aquarium?

You will need a 20 gallon tank to house a swarm of golden tetras. Some people get away with 15 gallons, but personally I don’t think that’s fair to the fish that need room to swim. So while you don’t need a 70 gallon tank for these small fish, a 5 gallon micro tank won’t work either.

You might think you could get away with a micro tank and only get 1 or 2 golden tetras, but I would advise against it. Golden tetras will not thrive unless they are in a group of at least 6 animals. They will be stressed and anxious – the group makes them feel safe.

With just one or a pair, there is an increased risk of disease for your golden tetra. You will also see the difference in their color which will be duller and they will likely not live up to their 3 to 4 year lifespan.

Do I need to add a filter to the golden tetra aquarium?

I definitely recommend a filter in any tank where you are breeding golden tetras. Since they are more prone to skin infections and diseases, you need to take care to keep the water as clean as possible, and one way to do this is to filter the water.

(You should also clean every two weeks with regular 50 percent water changes.)

When choosing a filter, choose one that is not too strong. This is because golden tetras are used to slow moving water and a strong filter creates a current that could move the water too quickly and forcefully for the golden tetras. Let’s face it: golden tetras aren’t the most adept swimmers, and they’re also slow.

Too strong a water current will stress you out and have negative physical effects. If you find that the filter you have chosen is too strong, try placing a plant or decoration strategically in front of the filter to disperse the flow.

Should I put plants in my golden tetra aquarium?

Although golden tetras don’t have lush plant life in their natural habitat, I recommend adding some plants to the aquascape, especially floating ones.

Gold tetras are very shy and appreciate additional hiding places. They definitely don’t want to miss out on the driftwood that is their sanctuary, but plants provide additional protection.

Additionally, the plants filter and diffuse some of the light that may shine into the tank. Golden tetras are sensitive to bright light and prefer a dark environment, and plants can help with this.

Seeing a fish swimming alone in a tank can be a bit depressing at times.

Many fish owners want to make sure their fish have friends to swim with.

If you’ve been a fish owner for a while, you know that not all fish can live together.

With the bright colors and interesting looks of a tetra, it seems like a good combination with a goldfish.

Here are a few things to know when attempting to put tetras and goldfish in the same tank.

Can tetras live with goldfish?

Tetras cannot live with goldfish.

There are several reasons why tetras cannot live with goldfish, and most are related to the environments and personalities of these two fish.

Here are the top five reasons why tetras and goldfish should not be placed in the same tank.

1. Temperature

A tetra thrives best in a warm tank.

If you’ve eaten goldfish by now, you know that they thrive best at around 23-24 degrees Celsius (73-75 degrees Fahrenheit).

A tetra needs a tank with temperatures around 28 or even 30 degrees (82 or 86 °F).

That would clearly be too warm for the goldfish to thrive.

When deciding which fish to put together, temperature is one of the most important factors to consider.

2. Diet

When we talk about nutrition, we don’t mean that tetras and goldfish like different flavored foods.

The problem with this is that the goldfish can actually eat neon tetras.

This is obviously a problem and not something you want to expose fish to.

While this is not the case with all goldfish, it is something worth avoiding.

3. Changes in the tank

If you’re still not convinced after this last reason, there are a few more reasons why you shouldn’t put tetras and goldfish in the same tank.

Goldfish are known to produce a lot of waste.

As a goldfish owner, you are probably very aware of this fact and the number of tank cleanings required.

If you clean the tank and change the water, the goldfish will thrive.

Unfortunately, these types of water changes are not ideal for a tetra.

The Tetra needs to be in an established tank with a lot less waste and water changes.

If you put the tetra and the goldfish in the same tank, there is no way to keep both of them happy when it comes to the aquarium environment.

4. Illness

Tetras are not known to get many diseases, but if they do, they can pass it on to a goldfish.

The last thing you want to do is introduce a fish into an aquarium and make your current fish sick.

Avoid tetras and goldfish together to keep them both slightly healthier and disease-free.

5. Social habits

Tetras like to travel in a school and stay with other tetras.

They are generally smaller fish and the goldfish will certainly outgrow them.

Because of this, you also need to keep an eye out for the goldfish that eat the tetras.

The problem is that when a school of tetras has to share a tank with other larger fish, they are constantly stressed and restless.

They are mindful of their lives and generally avoid the larger fish and linger in certain parts of the tank.

This is not healthy and if left for a long period of time will have health effects on the tetras.

They should be placed in a pool where they can swim freely and not fear for their lives on a daily basis.

Some people have found that bringing tetras and goldfish together when they are very small can work.

However, as the goldfish begin to grow, you will see the differences between the tetras and how their behavior will change.

This is the time to take her out of the pool and let her swim freely and without fear on her own.

What fish can live with goldfish?

Hopefully by now you’ve seen that putting tetras and goldfish together isn’t a good idea.

There are too many differences between them and their health will be affected if they are taken together.

As a responsible fish owner, you certainly don’t want this for your fish.

If you still fancy keeping multiple species in the same tank, there are a few other species of fish that you can add goldfish to.

One of the best fish for goldfish is the rose mullet.

Rosy barbs are easy to care for and generally have tank requirements similar to those of the goldfish.

The most important thing about rose mullets is that they can’t be left alone.

If you’re looking to add rosy barbs to your tank, you’ll need at least five of these.

Another thing to keep in mind is that when the pinky barbs join the tank, your goldfish will still be getting enough food.

The rose mullet is a fast swimmer and can get to the food too quickly.

Another good choice is a giant danios.

These are cool looking larger fish that don’t have to worry about goldfish consuming them.

Giant danios are also fast swimmers and will sometimes grab food before the goldfish have a chance.

Any time you add something new to your tank, make sure you do extra monitoring, not just on the first day but for several days afterwards.

There are so many types of tetras that you can keep in your aquarium that it’s difficult to know where to start. Just when you think you have a favorite, discover another!

We have been there.

And that’s why we created this resource. This list serves as an easy place to compare all the different types and types of tetras so you can be sure to pick your favorites.

Let’s start!

The Black-rocked Tetra is a beautiful species with dramatic fins. The most prominent feature is its flowing anal fin, which inspired its name. The fin runs almost half the length of the fish, emphasizing its tetragonal shape.

Instead of the bright colors of other tetra species, the Black Rock takes on a darker appearance. It is covered with gray silver and black. Two vertical stripes in the middle of the body set a striking accent.

Despite their menacing appearance, black-rocked tetras are very calm. They are peaceful community fish that prefer to be in groups of at least five.

These fish are originally from rivers in South America. Therefore, they prefer warm waters and a well-groomed habitat with lots of vegetation. Known for their inquisitive personalities, the black-rocked tetras spend most of the day swimming together to explore the pool.

Size: 3 inches

3 inch Difficulty: Beginner

Minimum tank size for beginners: 15 to 20 gallons

Found naturally throughout central Brazil, the ember tetra is a lesser-known species of tetra that has a lot to offer. It has a familiar shape shared by many fish in the tetra family. But it has a distinct color that catches the eye.

As the name suggests, this fish is almost completely covered with an orange tint. It mimics the natural color of amber, which contrasts beautifully against a natural background.

When it comes to maintenance, ember tetras are a great fish for beginners. They are generally no frills and do well in normal tropical water conditions. Embers thrive best in warm temperatures between 73 and 84 degrees. They also like relatively neutral water with a degree of hardness between 5 and 17 dGH.

Like other tetra species, embers are schooling fish. They swim around in groups and create a stunning streak of color in your aquarium.

Size: 1 inch

1 inch Difficulty: Beginner

Minimum tank size for beginners: 10 gallons

One of the most well-known tetra species out there is the neon tetra. This fish is very popular in the aquarium trade and is often found in pet stores around the world.

Revered for its bright color, the neon tetra is impossible to miss. It has a glowing neon blue stripe running down its body and a red accent on the bottom half. This color combination will make the fish stand out no matter what type of decor you use for their tank!

In the right lighting conditions, their color comes out even better!

Neon tetras are great community fish. They play well with others and usually stick to the top and middle parts of the water column. With some careful planning, these fish can easily become part of a diverse fish group.

Size: 1.5 inch

1.5 inch Difficulty level: beginner

Minimum tank size for beginners: 10 to 20 gallons

Often referred to as the Jewel Tetra or Callistus Tetra, the Serpae Tetra is an active species of fish that is sure to add some life to your aquarium. They come from the Amazon basin and spend most of their time hiding in murky waters to protect themselves from predators.

But in captivity, these fish stand out! They take on a reddish brown color and have several black accents. A black edging on the fins as well as a comma-shaped stripe on the body give the fish an interesting look.

The color of the Serpae tetra is largely dependent on a good diet. Their vibrancy can change over their lifetime, so a quality diet is a must.

Luckily, these fish are omnivores, eating most foods with ease. They work well for dry commercial foods. However, they also enjoy protein-rich snacks like mosquito larvae and artemia.

Size: 1.75 inch

1.75 inch Difficulty Level: Beginner-Intermediate

Minimum tank size for beginners to advanced users: 10 gallons

The green neon tetra is one of the most commonly misidentified species in the tetra family. At first glance, it’s not difficult to see why. They have the same shimmery blue stripes and splashes of red as their more famous cousins.

However, the vividness of these colors sets the neon green tetra apart from other species. The red coloring is weaker. In some specimens it is barely noticeable.

Meanwhile, the green background color is more visible. The neon blue stripe also tends to be more noticeable. The differences are much more noticeable when these fish live in the same tank as other tetra species.

Green neon tetras do well in large groups and community tanks. They are low maintenance fish that easily socialize with others. As long as there are no aggressive fish or superactive species in the tank, aggressive behavior and stress should not be a problem.

Size: 1 inch

1 inch Difficulty: Beginner

Minimum tank size for beginners: 10 to 20 gallons

The Congo Tetra was first introduced to the aquarium trade in the 1970s and quickly became a popular commodity. It’s not difficult to understand why.

Half of the fish’s body is covered with a beautiful iridescent blue. Hints of gold, violet and bright orange make up the rest of the body. The fins are also significantly longer than most tetra species. This creates an eye-catching display regardless of your tank’s setup.

When it comes to grooming, Congo Tetras are fairly easygoing. They prefer warm temperatures around 76 degrees Fahrenheit, neutral pH levels, and low hardness.

They willingly accept most foods. The fish do well on dried commercial food, but will also occasionally enjoy nutritious live snacks in the wild. Beware of living plants! Congo Tetras are notorious for nibbling on leaves.

Like most Tetra species, Congos are peaceful and non-aggressive. They like to stay in groups. It helps them feel more confident and secure in their surroundings.

Size: 3 to 3.5 inches

3 to 3.5 inches Difficulty Level: Beginner-Intermediate

Minimum tank size for beginners to advanced users: 30 gallons

The aptly named bloodfin tetra is an interesting species that packs a lot in terms of looks. Most of the body is covered with silver. The scales have an iridescent sheen that also produces shades of purple and turquoise.

But that doesn’t make the fish special. It’s the fins that stand out. As the name suggests, the bloodfin tetra has bright red fins. Color is most concentrated on the caudal fin, anal fin and dorsal fin. You might also see some red splashes on the pelvic fins.

The bloodfin tetra is endemic to the Parańa River Basin in South America. Therefore, they prefer warmer waters around 70 degrees.

The fish are tolerant of a wide range of conditions, making them an excellent choice for newcomers. However, they still need stable waters to really thrive.

Size: 2 inches

2 inch Difficulty: Beginner

Minimum tank size for beginners: 20 gallons

Next we have the Rummy Nose Tetra. Can you guess what defines it the most?

The entire head of the fish is bathed in bright red. It offers a nice contrast to the rest of the body, which is neutral silver. You’ll also see some nice touches on the tail fin.

It has horizontal stripes of pure white and rich black. This unique combination of colors and patterns makes for a very interesting looking fish!

They are an excellent schooling fish. They should be kept in groups of at least six fish. But if you have a roomy tank, you can add even more! These are schooling fish that swim together creating an impressive show.

This fish is very passive and easygoing. It is also fairly easy to breed in captivity. With a little patience, you can easily initiate spawning and raise a healthy population of rummy nosed tetras!

Size: 2.5 inch

2.5 inch Difficulty: Medium

Average minimum tank size: 20 gallons

Found in all the rivers of Colombia, Emperor Tetra is a beautiful species. In low light, their scales produce a deep purple glow that gives them the appearance of royalty.

You will also notice a thick black band running the length of the body. It is accompanied by some shimmery white and black stripes on the fins. The eyes are a bright metallic green, which stands out in the right lighting conditions.

As you can imagine, these fish do best in low-light aquariums. They prefer a dark underground and plenty of hiding places to retreat to during the day. Dense vegetation, driftwood, and rock caves all work well.

As always, emperor tetras prefer to stay in groups. Male fights can occur. They can get a bit territorial. But the fights are usually mild and don’t result in serious injuries.

Size: 2 inches

2 inch Difficulty: Medium

Average minimum tank size: 10 gallons

Low maintenance and easy to care for, the Black Neon Tetra is a great option for both new and experienced aquarists. They are very similar to their more famous cousin, the neon tetra.

You’ll notice that they share the same torpedo-shaped body. However, the Black Neon Tetra comes in much darker tones. The body is primarily black with some dark green undertones. However, two lively iridescent stripes set a nice accent when swimming.

Black neon tetras live in the wild in Blackwaters. The water is tainted with rotting leaves. While you don’t have to replicate this look in your tank, you can mimic the water chemistry.

These fish do best in slightly acidic waters. pH values ​​between 5.0 and 7.5 are ideal. They also do best when conditions are on the warmer side.

Size: 1.5 inch

1.5 inch Difficulty level: beginner

Minimum tank size for beginners: 20 gallons

Here is another popular type of tetra species that is often misidentified. Because of its familiar appearance, this fish is most commonly mistaken for a neon tetra. Although they look similar, upon closer inspection you’ll see some major differences.

The most notable is the presence of the red stripe (these are very colorful fish). In neon tetras, the red stripe runs about halfway down the body. In the cardinal tetra it extends from the gills to the tail. In most specimens, the red color even bleeds a bit into the caudal fin.

Cardinal tetras are docile and very easy to care for. They do well in groups and spend most of their time swimming in schools.

Natural decor is best for these fish. They like to swim through plants and find some shelter from the light.

Size: 2 inches

2 inch Difficulty: Medium

Medium minimum tank size: 10 to 20 gallons

12. Flame Tetra

Also known as the Von Rio Tetra, the Flame Tetra is a standout species with a distinctive appearance. It is named for its beautiful red and orange color.

Most fish are shiny silver in color. But the sides take on a bronze-orange hue. The bottom half has a vibrant splash of red color that creates a fire-like appearance.

In the wild, flame tetras are usually found in coastal rivers in Brazil. They do best in tanks that mimic their natural habitat. So you have to ensure slow-flowing water, fine sandy soil and lots of plants.

Like some other tetra species, flame tetras don’t like much light. They prefer something more subtle. This is great because their coloring tends to pop in low light.

With a good diet, you can improve the color even further. The fish will eat just about anything, so ensure you have a balanced diet rich in vitamins and nutrients.

Size: 1.5 inch

1.5 inch Difficulty level: beginner

Minimum tank size for beginners: 10 gallons

13. Blue Tetra

The blue tetra is a cool colored species native to the Amazon basin. It has a similar profile and shape to other tetra species you may be familiar with. But its color is quite unique.

The body is plated with iridescent silver. Accompanying this base color is a light blue stripe. The stripe is located at the base of the tail and gradually fades towards the middle of the body.

A touch of pink really brings out the glow of this fish. In an aquarium with a dark substrate, the color and shimmer of the fish come out much better.

Blue tetras need natural decor and an uncrowded tank to feel safe. Like many other tetra species, they are peaceful and do best in groups. When the tank is overcrowded, the fish often becomes stressed and resorts to fin biting!

Size: 2 inches

2 inch Difficulty: Beginner

Minimum tank size for beginners: 20 gallons

Next we have the Ruby Tetra. As the name suggests, this fish is predominantly red. Most of the body is light red to pink in color. However, splashes of a more vivid red can be found on the dead and on the tail.

Most specimens also have a small black spot at the base of the caudal fin. The other fins have a subtle highlight of shimmering blue, giving the fish a striking look.

Ruby tetras are schooling fish. They group and stay together for social reasons. However, they will still do their own thing every now and then before returning to the group.

These fish prefer slightly acidic waters. Their natural habitat is tainted with tannins, so the acidity of their captive environment is important.

To really thrive, the water conditions need to be pristine. In a well-maintained tank, the coloring of this fish will be more vivid.

Size: 0.8 inch

0.8 inch Difficulty Level: Beginner-Intermediate

Minimum tank size for beginners to advanced users: 10 gallons

15. Rainbow tetra

Rainbow tetras are one of the rarer species of the tetra family. In the wild, they are only found in isolated forest pools near the headwaters of the Rio Calima.

To help the fish reach their full potential, it is best to replicate this environment as much as possible. That means providing a soft sandy bottom, dense vegetation, and some woody branches. Many owners are also seeing success in adding dry leaf litter.

This serves as another food source for the fish as the leaves decompose. Plus, the leaves release those all-important tannins and other chemicals that benefit the fish.

Rainbow tetras have many colors on their bodies. In normal lighting conditions, it is noticeable that the body is coated with silver. A brown stripe runs the length of the fish from snout to tail.

Subtle splashes of iridescent blue cover the lower part of the body. In low light, this blue shimmers to give the fish its rainbow-like appearance.

Size: 2 inches

2 inch Difficulty: Medium

Average minimum tank size: 10 gallons

If you’re looking to add a touch of yellow to your aquarium, the lemon tetra is for you. Shiny silver is the main color you will see on the body. But they also have bright yellow spots.

You can find the yellow color on the head, tail and fins. Some fish even have a bit of yellow in their eyes. However, most of the eye is bright red.

As with other tetra varieties, lemons are known for their peaceful nature. They belong in peaceful communal pools. For best results, keep a group of six or more lemon tetras.

The fish adapt well to a variety of conditions. They can remain healthy in waters that are between 68 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit. While they like slightly acidic conditions, they can also tolerate some alkalinity.

Size: 1.5 inch

1.5 inch Difficulty level: beginner

Minimum tank size for beginners: 20 gallons

The Diamond Tetra was built to be the shining star of your aquarium! Diamond tetras are endemic to Lake Valencia in Venezuela and are best suited to aquariums with a nature-inspired decor.

Make sure to add lots of different plant species. In aquariums with dense vegetation, these fish develop an intense coloration that is striking.

Speaking of coloring, Diamond Tetras live up to their name. Their bodies are covered in ultra-shiny scales. The scales have an iridescent quality. It is more conspicuous than in other tetra species.

With the right lighting, you can see all possible colors of the rainbow spectrum. As if that wasn’t enough, the fish also have long, flowing fins. The fins also have an iridescent sheen despite being transparent.

You can help improve the coloration of the fish with a good diet. Small live frozen or live foods are known to help the fish reach their full color potential.

Size: 2 inches

2 inch Difficulty: Medium

Average minimum tank size: 10 gallons

The Buenos Aires tetra found in the Rio de la Plata in Argentina is another multicolored species. Once these fish were very popular in the aquarium trade. That popularity has waned somewhat, but you can still easily find these fish from breeders.

The reason the Buenos Aires Tetra has fallen out of favor is because of its behavior. It has a reputation for eating and destroying living plants. Therefore, you must use artificial plants in your aquarium.

The good news is that the species is adapting well to captive life. It’s no frills when it comes to water parameters.

The Buenos Aires Tetra has red, yellow, green, and blue splashes. The red is found on the pectoral, anal and caudal fins. Meanwhile, a subtle splash of blue, albeit usually on the dorsal fin.

The most striking feature is its shimmering yellow stripe. Depending on the lighting, the horizontal stripe glows with green reflections.

Size: 2.75 inch

2.75 inch Difficulty level: Beginner

Minimum tank size for beginners: 30 gallons

19. Penguin Tetra

The penguin tetra is a beautiful, neutral-colored fish. Instead of the vibrant tones you’ll find in many different species of tetra, this species sticks to black and silver.

Most of the body is covered in a shiny silver that catches the light. A thick black stripe breaks up this shimmer. It runs from the gills to the tail. In most specimens, the stripe continues at the lower fork of the caudal fin.

These are schooling fish that need a group to stay healthy. Without others, the fish spends most of its time in hiding. They do best in groups of six or more. If you are comfortable, the group will swim in unison.

Penguin tetras are not difficult to care for at all. They adapt well to standard freshwater setups. They are also omnivores and will take whatever food you offer them. For best results, provide a varied diet of dry food and live snacks.

Size: 3 inches

3 inch Difficulty: Beginner

Minimum tank size for beginners: 30 gallons

The Glowlight Tetra is a species that looks best in low light. The dominant color of the fish is a silvery peach. The color blends in well with the surroundings.

However, these fish have a bright red stripe that extends from the head to the tail. The red color glows with the right lighting, making the fish look like a glowing filament.

With luminous tetras, you have to be a little more careful when planning a community. Certain fish, such as angelfish, are attracted to this tetra’s bright appearance. They almost always try to eat them!

It is best to avoid fast-swimming fish. Keep the tankmates small to avoid possible accidents.

As always, a group of bright tetras is best. Unlike other tetra species, these fish will not school with fish outside of their species. They will not even school with neon or cardinal tetras.

Size: 1.5 inch

1.5 inch Difficulty level: beginner

Minimum tank size for beginners: 10 gallons

Bleeding tetras are shy fish who need others to make them feel safe. When kept alone, they can easily become aggressive. Most will start nibbling on their fins. The stress of being alone can also cause illness and premature death!

In order for the fish to feel comfortable, you need a group of about half a dozen. A well decorated tank is also a must. They prefer dense vegetation and plenty of hiding places.

Rocks, fallen pots, driftwood, and even PVC pipe work well. Unlike other tetras, Bleeding Hearts stay in the middle and at the bottom of the water column. If they rise too often, it can mean they aren’t getting enough oxygen.

These fish are named for a red spot on their body. Aquarists usually refer to this spot as the “heart”. The rest of the body is pinkish-brown in color. Long fins in shimmering pink and white tones complete the beautiful look.

Size: 2 inches

2 inch Difficulty: Beginner

Minimum tank size for beginners: 10 gallons

Here’s a species of tetra that can tolerate fluctuating conditions. In the wild, the roach tetra lives in South America. They are often found in clear waters.

These waters often become turbid during heavy rains, dramatically altering the water conditions. This unique habitat benefits the fish in captivity.

They can live in temperatures between 73 and 82 degrees. The fish can also tolerate pH levels ranging from an acidic 5.5 to a more alkaline 8.5. Of course, it’s always better to keep things stable.

This fish’s name is inspired by its appearance. The most striking feature is its bright red eye. The color stands out in the natural decor and makes the fish more visible against the background of the tank.

The rest of the body is fairly neutral. The fish is predominantly silver. However, they have a dark black tail with a touch of white at the base.

Size: 2.75 inch

2.75 inch Difficulty level: Beginner

Minimum tank size for beginners: 20 gallons

Originally from Paraguay and Brazil, the black phantom tetras are very popular in the aquarium trade. With its unique name comes a unique look.

The fish is mostly dark gray. The long dorsal, anal and caudal fins take on a darker black color. The fish also has a unique spot behind its gills.

The spot is dark black. Bluish-white lines on the front and back of this patch make it look like a human eye!

Black phantom tetras can be a bit more difficult to care for than their more famous cousins. This is because they are sensitive to water-to-water conditions. The fish react poorly to temperature, pH and ammonia fluctuations.

As a result, you need to do frequent water changes and test the water regularly. It is also important to provide the tank with a tight lid. Black phantom tetras are notorious jumpers!

Size: 1.75 inch

1.75 inches Difficulty: Medium

Average minimum tank size: 10 gallons

24. Mexican Tetra

The Mexican tetra is native to the lower Rio Grande and eastern Mexico. It is also found in the Pecos Rivers of Texas. The fish has many trade names. You may see it referred to as the Blind Cave Tetra.

Not all Mexican tetras are blind. But the blind varieties have become very popular among aquarists because they have a pinkish-white color reminiscent of albino fish. They don’t have eyes either!

The standard Mexican tetra looks simple. It’s silver and has that familiar tetra shape.

Mexican tetras are very robust. The blind varieties of this fish also do well in captivity. Despite their inability to see, the fish have no problem navigating an aquarium or finding food!

They prefer subdued lighting and a gravel substrate. This is much different than most tetra species. But it mimics the caves and shallow waters these fish call home in the wild.

Size: 4 inches

4 inches Difficulty: Medium

Average minimum tank size: 25 gallons

Here’s another unique type of tetra that doesn’t follow the norms. In the wild, the silvertip tetra lives in small streams and tributaries. These bodies of water usually lack vegetation.

Therefore, plants are not necessary for silvertip tetras in captivity. They do well with surrounding plants, but will also thrive in sparse tanks. Simple sandy substrate and some driftwood branches are all they need.

Silvertip tetras are small fish with some intricate detailing on their bodies. The main body is plain grey. More notable, however, are the fins.

The caudal fin is black at the base. The black coloring extends through the fork of the tail. There are two silver dots around the base of the fork. You can also find silver dots on the tips of each fin.

These silver dots shimmer in the light and give the fish a much more interesting look.

Size: 2 inches

2 inch Difficulty: Beginner

Minimum tank size for beginners: 10 gallons

26. Colombian Tetra

While tetras are usually peaceful by nature, there are some exceptions. The Colombian tetra can easily show aggressive behavior. They are slightly larger than most tetra species.

As a result, they have been known to bully smaller fish and nibble fins. This behavior gets worse when there are not enough Colombian tetras to form a group.

Although not well known in the aquarium trade, these fish are quite beautiful. They have larger heads and beautiful iridescent bodies. The silver scales shimmer in the right lighting, creating accents of green, blue, and purple.

The fins of the fish are semi-transparent and red. The dorsal fin is quite large, although most of the time these fish remain angled backwards. The anal fin is also large. It is broad, extending from the pectoral fins to the caudal fin.

Size: 2.5 inch

2.5 inch Difficulty level: beginner

Minimum tank size for beginners: 10 gallons

27. Panda tetra

Panda tetras are aptly named for the color markings on their tails. Most of the body is made of silver. Depending on the lighting conditions, yellow, blue and green tones may appear.

There is a large black spot at the base of the tail. It is accompanied by two smaller white spots at the top and bottom corners of the tail. This unique color pattern resembles a panda’s face, which is why they are called panda tetras!

You can also see a similar black and white color combination on the anal and pectoral fins. However, they are not as iconic as the spots on the tail!

Like many tetra species, panda tetras need a large group to stay healthy. If they are not in a school group, the individual fish can become stressed. They may start thrashing around and biting their tankmates’ fins!

Size: 1.3 inch

1.3 inch Difficulty Level: Beginner-Intermediate

Minimum tank size for beginners to advanced: 15 gallons

Throw everything you know about tetras out the window! The bucktooth tetra is a species very different from others in the tetra family. It has a similar overall shape and appearance. But his behavior is not very tetra-like.

These fish are known to be quite aggressive. In the wild they are predatory fish. They eat not only insects and small fish, but also fish scales.

Beware of bullying in captivity. These are not species you can keep in a community tank. Generally, they only belong in a tank with other Bucktooth Tetras.

The Bucktooth Tetra is an interesting fish to look at. It has a semi-transparent body. The upper half is covered in silver gray paint. Depending on the lighting, you may also see yellow or green pops.

The fish is easy to spot thanks to two large black dots. One spot is at the base of the tail, the other in the middle of the body just behind the pectoral fins.

Size: 5 inches

5 inch Difficulty: Medium

Average minimum tank size: 55 gallons

If you are looking for a hardy species with an interesting appearance, consider the X-Ray Tetra. Diese Fische haben einen ungewöhnlichen durchsichtigen Körper. Sie können feine Details durch seine Haut sehen. Dazu gehören sein Skelett und seine Organe!

Der X-Ray Tetra ist nicht rein transparent. Die Rücken- und Afterflossen haben schwarze, weiße und gelbe Streifen. Inzwischen ist die Schwanzflosse zartrosa. Diese Kombination von physikalischen Eigenschaften schafft eine interessante Ergänzung für jeden Panzer.

Ursprünglich stammt der Röntgensalmler aus Küstenflüssen in Südamerika. Diese Flüsse sind sehr unterschiedlich, wenn es um die Wasserqualität geht. Dadurch ist der X-Ray Tetra sehr anpassungsfähig.

Es kann eine Vielzahl von Parametern in Gefangenschaft tolerieren und ist nicht sehr empfindlich gegenüber Schwankungen. Solange Sie innerhalb akzeptabler Bereiche bleiben, werden die Fische kein Problem damit haben, gesund zu bleiben.

Size: 2 inches

2 Zoll Schwierigkeitsgrad: Anfänger

Mindesttankgröße für Anfänger: 10 Gallonen

30. Flagge Tetra

Der Flaggensalmler ist ein seltenes Mitglied der Salmlerfamilie. Es kommt fast ausschließlich in kleinen Bächen im gesamten Amazonasgebiet vor. Die Verbreitung dieses Fisches ist groß. Aber die Art ist nicht so weit verbreitet wie einige andere Salmlerarten.

Fahnensalmler gedeihen am besten in Tanks, die mit Pflanzen und Treibholz dekoriert sind. Sie bevorzugen auch sandiges Substrat und wenig Licht.

Sorgen Sie beim Essen für reichlich Abwechslung. Diese Fische können mit einer Diät aus trockenen Flocken oder Pellets gut zurechtkommen. Ihre Färbung kann sich jedoch mit einer abwechslungsreichen Ernährung mit Blutwürmern, Daphnien und anderen lebenden Lebensmitteln dramatisch verbessern.

Diese Fische haben ein interessantes Aussehen. Viele sagen, dass sie wie die Flagge Belgiens aussehen! Dies liegt daran, dass sie seitliche Streifen in Schwarz, Rot und Gelb haben.

Die Linien sind dünn und erstrecken sich über den gesamten Körper, beginnend an der Kiemenplatte. Die Augen der Fische sind rot, während die Flossen transparent sind.

Size: 1.5 inch

1,5 Zoll Schwierigkeitsgrad: Anfänger-Mittelstufe

Mindesttankgröße für Anfänger bis Fortgeschrittene: 15 Gallonen

31. Kopf- und Rücklicht Tetra

Der Kopf- und Schwanzsalmler, der in Schwarzwasserflüssen und -bächen in Südamerika endemisch ist, ist eine interessante Ergänzung für Gemeinschaftsaquarien. Obwohl diese Fische nicht die auffälligsten der Salmlerarten sind, haben sie einige skurrile körperliche Merkmale.

Ihren Namen haben sie von zwei kupferfarbenen Flecken am Körper. Ein Fleck befindet sich am Schwanzansatz, der andere neben der Kiemenplatte. Die Spots reflektieren das Licht sehr gut und lassen sie wie Scheinwerfer aussehen!

Die Punkte sind normalerweise mit schwarzen Flecken gekoppelt. Viele glauben, dass dieses Muster eine Form der Mimikry ist, die wie Augen aussieht.

Kopf- und Schwanzsalmler sind größtenteils pflegeleicht. Sie gedeihen am besten in natürlichen Umgebungen und großen Gemeinschaften. Als Schwarmfisch benötigen sie mindestens fünf weitere Gefährten, um sich sicher zu fühlen.

Size: 2 inches

2 Zoll Schwierigkeitsgrad: Anfänger

Mindesttankgröße für Anfänger: 15 Gallonen

Zeit zum Auswählen!

Jetzt, da Sie die wichtigsten Salmlerarten kennen, die Sie in Ihrem Heimaquarium halten können, ist es an der Zeit, Ihre Favoriten auszuwählen!

Vergessen Sie nicht, dass viele verschiedene Arten und Sorten auf unserer Liste miteinander gepflegt werden können. Das heißt, Sie haben die Möglichkeit, einige auszuwählen.

Im Laufe der Zeit werden wir Pflegeanleitungen für jede der Salmlerarten auf dieser Liste erstellen. In der Zwischenzeit können Sie uns gerne direkt Fragen zu Arten stellen, die wir noch nicht abgedeckt haben!

A major exception to the rule that fish usually only swarm with their own kind are very similar looking fish. When fish are very similar to each other, they can swim together as a group. The best-known example of this is probably the cardinal tetra and the neon tetra. Both are small tetras with a bright, almost luminous blue stripe from head to tail and a red stripe underneath. Cardinals have a bit more red in their bodies, but the two are so alike that they often go to school together.

Do you know that if your water is not in the desired PH range according to your fish, it can lead to problems like algae growth, coral growth, damage to the health of your fish, etc.? We highly recommend doing this API water test kit on Amazon.com so you always know the pH level of your aquarium.

Tetras are a type of freshwater fish endemic to Central and South America and Africa. They are also omnivores, meaning they will eat flakes, brine shrimp, mosquito larvae and even plants.

Estimating the number of fish that will fit in a given aquarium can be difficult. Simply put, different species of fish need different amounts of space. If you want to set up a community tank with a variety of species, this becomes much more difficult. For example, if you want to keep neon tetra fish in a 10 gallon tank, you need to know how many you can fit in there. If you’re interested in getting guppies for your 10 gallon tank, read this.

So how many neon tetras fit in a 10 gallon tank?

Neon tetras are schooling fish, so you can’t keep them all together. It’s also not recommended to cram too many of these into a 10-gallon tank. So how many neon tetras can a 10 gallon tank hold? This question, as well as a few others involving tankmates and community members, will be answered.

First, pay attention to the size of a neon tetra. Generally, they can grow anywhere from 1.5 to 2 inches in length, with 2 inches being quite prominent.

How to calculate the number of neon tetras for an aquarium?

When estimating how many fish can fit in a given space, it’s better to be generous in estimating fish size than to be cautious. Otherwise, the tank may end up being too small. Although neon tetras rarely grow larger than 1.6 inches, we round up to 1.75 inches to be careful.

When dealing with fish under 3 inches in length, the conventional guideline is that 1 gallon of water is needed for every inch of fish. As a result, a 1.75 inch neon tetra requires about 1.75 gallons of water. So if you had a 10 gallon tank you could easily fit about 6 neon tetras in there. We can round up to 6 since 10/1.75 = 5.7.

What happens if you add too many neon tetras?

You could maybe fit 7 of them if we were generous with our Neon Tetra size estimate, but that would be overdoing it.

Remember that you can fit 7 neon tetras in a 10 gallon tank if they are each 1.5 inches long. There’s a good chance they’ll grow close to 1.6 or 1.7 inches long, so we recommend being careful with 6 per 10 gallons.

Equipment needed for your 10 gallon tank

Aqueon 10 Gallon Aquarium Kit

Aqueon aquarium kits are ideal for beginners as they include all the necessary components. Consider the total number of fish you want to keep and the location of the aquarium in your home when choosing between the different kits.

Fluval M aquarium heater

The Fluval M-Series heater is a refreshing change from the large, unattractive heaters of the past. This aquarium heater has a reflective, impact-resistant borosilicate glass tube that contains high-quality components. It includes a computer calibrated thermostat, all backed by a 16-point quality assurance process.

Python Pro-Clean gravel vacuum

During routine water changes, the Pro-Clean Gravel Vacuum Kit effectively separates and removes contaminants from the aquarium gravel.

Marina algae magnetic cleaner

With the Marina Algae Magnet Cleaner you can clean the inside of the aquarium glass without getting your hands wet.

API Freshwater Master test kit

The API Freshwater Master Test Kit identifies the four most critical values ​​in freshwater aquariums. These include pH, ammonia, nitrite and nitrate.

Pawfly 4 inch aquarium net fine mesh

The fine mesh net is ideal for safely transporting fragile fish and scooping tiny litter out of the water. The tiny nylon mesh was gentle to the touch and perfectly safe for all fish, reducing the risk of injury.

Tank conditions in the 10 gallon tank for neon tetras

The most important factor in keeping fish is the condition of the environment. Special pool conditions are required, especially for neon tetras. The neon tetra is a tough fish.

However, that doesn’t mean they can withstand dramatic changes in water values. When we feel that our surroundings are not right, we take care of our health and our bodies. We care about our needs and should be able to offer our fish the same level of care.

Here are some of the requirements for a 10 gallon tank:

Maintaining the water temperature of the tank

The body of a fish is not able to produce its own heat. Pisces are cold-blooded species. They regulate their body temperature entirely through the temperature of the water and its surroundings. Therefore, you must always adjust the temperature of your tank to the needs of the fish.

Maintaining the pH balance

Tetras are freshwater fish that tolerate a wider range of pH levels than other fish. Neon tetras also prefer water with neutral or slightly acidic properties.

filter system

The hardiest neon tetras have been found in the wild. Most neon tetras sold in pet stores and home aquariums today come from fish farms. This makes neon tetras more sensitive than wild tetras. Neon tetras therefore require more attention and work. A robust filtration system is necessary because the fish produces a steady flow of ammonia and waste from food and excrement.

Filtration helps convert these dangerous compounds into less dangerous ones. The cycle should be completed in the absence of fish in the tank. If you are serious about keeping neon tetras, you need to be aware of all of their needs in the aquarium.

For example, you should know that neon tetras are not suitable for a freshly watered tank. To do this, maintain a pH value of 6 to 7 in your aquarium water. Most neon tetra keepers prefer a pH of 6.5 for their aquariums.

routine maintenance

You will need to maintain the tank regularly once you are done putting it up. The health of your fish is the top priority when it comes to aquarium conservation. Regularly inspecting your fish can help you identify changes or problems in the tank.

Apart from different pool conditions, the equipment in the pool must also be considered. This may include the tank’s lighting system, as well as filters and heaters. Clean the tank regularly to ensure no dangerous contaminants get onto the equipment.

feeding

Feeding your fish is easy. Neon tetras may need to be fed two or three times a day. All you have to do now is choose a convenient feeding time and stick to it. Due to the small size of these tetras, you may need to smash your meal.

Another thing to keep in mind is the water change. Every two weeks you need to change or top up at least 20% of the water. Neon tetras like to swim between plants around aquarium rocks and the like.

Wrap up

Neon tetras are undoubtedly among the most beautiful aquarium fish. Here are a few more things to keep in mind when keeping neon tetras in a 10 gallon aquarium:

Overfeeding the fish is not a good idea.

Maintain the aquarium each week by adding live plants and decorations.

Keep an eye on the water quality.

Use a quality filter system.

Never overfill the tank.

I hope this guide has helped you better understand how many neon tetras to keep in a 10 gallon tank. If you want to learn more about the 5 gallon tank, read this. If you want to know how many glofish are in a 10 gallon tank.

Betta fish are one of the most popular aquarium fish. Neon tetras are too. But can neon tetra and betta fish peacefully coexist in the same tank? We’ve all heard that bettas can be aggressive and attack other fish.

The short answer is yes. In the right circumstances, neon tetras and betta fish can be tank mates.

However, in many cases, the introduction of the two can lead to disaster. To give you the best chance of success, please read on!

Compatibility Factors of Neon Tetra and Betta

There are several factors to consider when trying to ensure that neon tetras and betta fish get along. This includes tank size, water parameters, setup, food, and individual fish personalities.

tank size

Although it’s popular to keep bettas in small containers, they thrive in 5 to 10 gallon aquariums. Larger aquariums are especially important if you want to introduce your betta to conspecifics.

Neon tetras should also have at least ten gallons due to their social behavior. Neon Tetras are schooling fish and they will get stressed if they don’t have a large group of other Neons. The ideal size of a school of neon tetras is at least 10 fish.

A general rule for selecting aquarium supplies is one inch of fish per gallon. Neon tetras can grow up to an inch and a half and Bettas can grow up to two and a half inches.

So if you have ten neon tetras and one betta, you have about eighteen inches of fish.

So while you can get by with a 10 gallon tank, a 20 gallon tank is ideal. This would even give you enough extra space to add some snails to keep the tank clean. This larger tank gives the neon tetra and betta enough space to avoid each other.

water parameters

What about water temperature and pH? Certainly the water needs of the two fish must overlap in order for them to live in the same tank. The good news is that their water requirements are very similar.

Betta fish should be kept in water that is approximately 78-82°F. While neon tetras thrive best in a temperature range of 72-80°F. As you can see this gives us a narrow range of 78-80°F. This is quite achievable with a good aquarium heater or even better an aquarium heater controller.

Luckily, these two fish also have similar pH needs. Betta thrive best in a water pH of 6.5-7. And neon tetras with a water pH of 6-7. Therefore, both require a slightly soft water hardness.

As you can see, the water needs of neon tetras and bettas are very similar. This makes them ideal tankmates in this regard.

Individual fish personalities and species temperament

We all know that Bettas don’t get along well with other fish in general. However, understanding the personalities and habits of the two types can help you avoid conflict.

Neon Tetra personalities and habits

Neon tetras are very peaceful schooling fish. They thrive best when kept in schools of ten to twenty tetras.

While you could bet the betta would be the aggressor in a fight, neon tetras occasionally end up on the wrong side of the law. Tetras can nibble on a male betta’s long, billowing fins.

On the plus side, neon tetras prefer to hang in the middle tier of an aquarium, while bettas prefer to be closer to the top. So as long as you have a large enough aquarium and lots of plants, fin pinching should be minimized

Betta Individual personalities and habits

Betta personalities can be very diverse. Men tend to be aggressive while women are much less so. While not as flashy and attractive, female bettas stand a much better chance of living peacefully with neon tetras.

But the truth is that most of us want to keep a handsome, striking male Betta. The interesting thing about Betta is that each fish has its own individual personality. You may find that you are one of the lucky ones and have a Betta with a good temper. With careful planning and care, your Betta will do just fine with some tankmates.

However, there are many bettas that simply do not share an aquarium with other residents. When you find that this is your betta, just accept that fact and learn to enjoy him or her in his or her own tank.

That means it’s important to have a backup aquarium in case mating doesn’t work out for your fish. Neon tetras can become stressed or killed outright when living with aggressive bettas. It’s not humane to keep fish in the same tank when one bullies the other.

Can Neon Eat Tetra Betta Food?

Betta are carnivores and neon tetras are omnivores. This means that while tetras can live on betta food, bettas cannot live on tetra food. You may even find that neon tetras prefer to feed on the betta pellets rather than flakes.

However, both species enjoy live food such as Artemia or Daphnia. These are great treats loaded with good protein.

plants and decoration

The aquarium should be heavily planted to give the neon tetra plenty of hiding places. This will help them avoid conflict. Bettas also enjoy heavily planted aquariums for cover and habitat. This also gives them a place to build their bubble nests. Low light aquarium plants are a good choice for those who don’t want to spend a lot of money on expensive lights or CO2.

While live plants are the best choice for your fish and aquarium, not everyone has a green thumb. If you decide to buy artificial plants, get something thick and wide, like artificial Anacharis. Choosing thicker plants will ensure there are plenty of good hiding places available.

Ready made aquarium decorations can also be incorporated to ensure there is enough hiding space for all your fish.

Introduce your betta fish to neon tetras

I highly recommend you set up neon tetras in your aquarium first and add a betta later. This is due to the territorial nature of bettas. Once established alone in a tank, a betta will be far less welcoming of newcomers. He will consider the whole tank his territory.

When added, it will recognize the other fish and hopefully only take up part of the tank. This should create neutral ground for the neons to live peacefully on.

Before releasing the betta into the aquarium, place a container in the water with the betta inside. This gives betta and neon tetra time to face each other with a safety barrier. After an hour or two, release the betta into the tank.

Allow some time on the first day to observe and check the aquarium. Watch out for signs of aggression from the Betta, such as: B. Flaring gills. A little chasing and posturing to establish territory is fine as long as the betta doesn’t do any damage. There is a difference if the betta is trying to kill another fish and just establishing itself.

Remember to have a backup plan in case things don’t go well. It is best to have a small tank ready for your fighting fish if the neon tetras don’t work.

Final Thoughts on Betta Fish and Neon Tetras as Tankmates

These fish are both interesting to look at, beautifully colored and will keep your aquarium bursting with activity. With the right fish in a well thought-out aquarium, they can be kept together peacefully.

At least six neon tetras should be kept together in a tank. Neon tetras are a shoal species, so you should keep at least six to 10 neon tetras together in a tank. Neon tetras get uncomfortable, get stressed and maybe even die if you keep too few of them together.

In addition, neon tetras are active fish that need a lot of swimming space. If you have more than 15 neon tetras, make sure you have at least 20 gallons (76 liters) of water in your tank. Also, be careful not to overcrowd your aquarium.

Do you know that if your water is not in the desired PH range according to your fish, it can lead to problems like algae growth, coral growth, damage to the health of your fish, etc.? We highly recommend doing this API water test kit on Amazon.com so you always know the pH level of your aquarium.

The golden tetra is one of the cutest tetras. It has a golden hue on its silver-based skin, is small in diameter but usually moves in groups of 5 or more, which is a sight to behold in any aquarium or natural habitat. It gets its golden hue from “guanine”, a natural secretory process in its skin to protect itself from some parasites, as the golden tetra has a natural predisposition to contract the trematode parasite.

For the aquarist, the golden tetra is not as easy to acquire as other tetras like neon tetra, cardinal tetra, diamond tetra, etc., but if you manage to get hold of some, they will serve as a sparkling addition to your aquatic community. They will need a larger aquarium as they live in groups, preferably a 20 gallon aquarium. Choose the decor carefully because the golden tetra needs an open space to swim and doesn’t like brightness that much, so decorate the sides of the tank and use some floating plants or decorations that can dim the lights in the aquarium.

The golden tetra may not be as easy to breed as other fish, as most offspring will not have their signature golden hue. This is probably because “guanine” is a natural defense mechanism against parasites that are only found in their natural habitat and not in the home aquarium. So don’t expect to find golden tetras at any pet store like many popular pet fish.

A little story about gold tetras

The golden tetra was first discovered and described in 1909 by Marion Durbin Ellis. They are found along the coast of South America, mainly in coastal floodplains.

This species of tetra is not on the IUCN Red List.

Appearance of golden tetra

The golden tetra can grow to around 1½ inches or 4 cm in captivity and has a lifespan of 3 to 5 years. Skin coloration depends on whether the golden tetra is bred in a home aquarium or found in the wild. The caudal fin is red on top with a black spot in the middle, while the dorsal fins are golden with white spots at the tips. The wild-caught tetras have the obvious golden hue due to the secretion of “guanine” to protect against parasites. In captivity, the gold hue is not secreted by the parasites, so the coloration of the fish in this environment is plain silver.

What to expect from the attitude?

The golden tetra is a bit tricky to keep, mainly because this particular fish is prone to disease, getting parasites, and becoming distressed if the water it’s kept in changes in any way. This is because they are wild caught most of the time and cannot easily adapt to an unnatural habitat.

They are recommended for aquarists with moderate experience in aquaristics.

Feed golden tetras

The golden tetras are omnivores, so they eat different types of food of animal and vegetable origin. If you want to maintain a healthy diet for them, you should feed them good quality food on a consistent basis. You can feed them brine shrimp or maybe even bloodworms from time to time just to enrich their diet. If you do feed them, stay close by to supervise them for the first few minutes so you can remove whatever is in the tank. Remember that if you let them, they will overeat.

Behavior and Temperament of Gold Tetra

According to experts, golden tetras are both quite shy and peaceful. Some experts also suggest that they are non-aggressive. what’s more These fish are slow swimmers and can easily be beaten to eat. If you plan on keeping them, you need to make sure you’re giving them enough food.

Your golden tetra can become anxious when they see a lot of activity around them. Also, they don’t like loud noises. So choose a perfect location for your aquarium. Did you know that golden tetras are also called X-ray tetras? Why? Well, that’s because of their unique bone structure.

They can easily pick up sound waves through the bone structure. That is why their hearing ability is higher than that of other fish. If you have a community aquarium they can easily live about three to four years. In a wild environment, their lifespan can be up to five years.

Maintenance of the Gold Tetra Aquarium

You don’t have to do anything out of the ordinary to take good care of the golden tetra. Like all other fish, they need clean water. All aquariums, no matter the size, require maintenance. In all of them, organic material decomposes, so that the water hardness increases due to evaporation. In order to achieve a stable living environment, the water must be changed regularly, even more so when the aquarium is overpopulated. Make it a habit to change the water every two weeks and replace no more than half the tank water.

Setting up your aquarium

The golden tetras do best in groups of 5 and more, if this is the case they will need a large aquarium, preferably a 20 gallon one. The golden tetras feel comfortable with subdued light and filtered water with peat. You can copy/simulate their natural habitat they originate from by adding a bag of aquarium safe peat. Dimming the lighting can be achieved by placing plants or floating decorations.

A nature-like setup would be ideal for the golden tetra environment. River sand as a substrate and some twisted roots accompanied by some driftwood would be the perfect hiding spots for them. As an alternative to the driftwood branches, you can use an ordinary strand that has been bark-free and dried. You can add some dried leaves to give the water a natural feel, but remember to replace them when you change the water every two weeks.

breed golden tetras

The golden tetra is an egg-laying fish. They can be bred successfully in domestic conditions, but don’t be surprised if they don’t have the distinctive golden hue when born, as coloration is a natural defense mechanism against certain parasites in their natural habitat. They require a separate tank for breeding (10 gallons) and it is best to group them 6 x 6 (males x females). Feed them live food and nature will take its course. The females lay their eggs on plants or green threads, so remember to prepare the aquarium accordingly.

The water must be soft, with a pH of 6.0 and the temperature should be set at around 25°C. Filter the water in the rearing tank as you would in your live aquarium.

After spawning, remove the parents from the rearing tank. You will find that the eggs hatch in the first 24 hours. The young fish start swimming after 3 days. At the beginning, give the fry infusoria food until they start eating microworms and artemia. Golden tetras are sensitive to light, so keep the tank as dark as possible.

Common diseases and their treatment

You should keep in mind that if you don’t keep the aquarium water clean, your golden tetra is susceptible to fungus and eczema. And you should remember that anything you do or add to the tank can cause disease in your fish. Not only other breeds, but also decorations, substrate and plants can harbor bacteria.

On the other hand, they are also carriers of some important opportunistic infections that can be observed in any aquarium. So, you should always be prepared to examine and treat various diseases. So let’s talk about some common golden tetra diseases and how to treat them.

tail and fin rot

This is very common in fish that live in an aquarium. This disease starts at the edge of the fin and then slowly affects the entire fin. Both betta fish and goldfish are susceptible to fin and tail rot diseases. Your tetra may suffer from this due to the poor water quality in your tank.

symptoms

The most noticeable symptom is the discoloration of the fins.

Fraying of the tail and fin can also sometimes be seen in your fish.

Your fish will not eat properly and will gradually lose their appetite.

If you don’t treat this condition as soon as possible, it can affect the entire body. Well, here are some treatment options that you can try.

treatments

If you notice any symptoms, move the fish to a hospital tank and separate it from others.

Immediately change the water in the tank and after adding new water, do not forget to add antibiotics designed for fish.

If necessary, you can also add aquarium salt to calm your fish.

Every other day you should change about 20 to 30 percent of the water.

This rare symptom disease is commonly caused by Flavobacterium columnare, a dangerous bacterium that can increase mortality rates. To treat this you need to follow proper tank management and you also need to use fish antibiotics.

Symptoms to consider

You can see ulcers on the body.

There will be visible cloudy as well as white patches around the gill area.

The gill infection will quickly bread your fish. You can also see a change in gill color.

treatment

You can add some fish antibiotics to the tank water, for example furan, acriflavin, copper sulfate and more.

In addition, depending on the condition, fish keepers can add terramycin to the fish feed. This would help in treating your internal infections.

To lower stress levels, you can add one to two tablespoons of salt per liter of water.

Hemorrhagic sepsis

Piscine novirhabdovirus is the main reason behind this deadly disease. Around 50 different species of freshwater fish are affected by this disease.

symptoms

Because this is an internal kind of disease. As a result, it will be difficult for you to identify the external symptoms. However, sometimes you may see some symptoms such as: B. Reddish fins, gills, eyes, bloated belly and more.

You may notice your fish swimming abnormally.

treatment

You should purify the water as soon as possible if you notice any of these symptoms.

Because it spreads slowly, you can make the aquarium environment stress-free to allow your fish to properly recover.

dropsy

It happens when fluid builds up in your fish body. As a result, you may experience swollen bellies. This condition is also known as bloating. Well, some experts say it’s not a fish disease. In fact, dropsy is a symptom of a disease your fish is going through. The disease can be caused by a change in water temperature, improper diet, aggressive partners, stress, and more.

Some Symptoms of Lookout

Your fish will not eat properly.

The tetra may develop a swollen abdomen.

In some cases you can see the curved spine of the fish.

Pale gills and swollen or red anus.

Your fish will start swimming near the surface.

treatment

First, you should separate your fish and keep them in a quarantine tank.

Then you need to add a couple of spoons of salt to the water, a fish antibiotic.

Add antibiotics to the feed to treat the infected golden tetra.

pop eye

Well, that’s not exactly a disease. It happens when fluid builds up in or behind the eye. When your golden tetra has this disease, the eyes will be cloudy and at times it can look very clear.

Some Symptoms of Pop-Eye

Swelling in one eye or both eyes can be seen.

Visible cloudy eyes.

treatment

Bring your infected fish to quarantine tanks and apply the salt treatment method.

Maintain optimal water temperature and don’t forget to check the ammonia nitrate and pH levels of the water daily.

If it happens due to parasites, apply the necessary antibiotics.

Always feed your tetra good quality food to boost its immune system.

cloud eyes

Your fish can develop a cloudy eye for a variety of reasons. Some common reasons are stress, malnutrition, parasites or old age.

symptoms

Your fish eyes will appear cloudy with white. The fish can also lose sight.

treatment

Treat the water immediately and add aquarium salts.

Do not forget to comply with the water parameters in the quarantine tank.

You can also use different tools to monitor the parameters.

mouth fungus

Also known as mouth rot, this is a type of bacterial infection. The bacteria feed on your dead fish, fish droppings and leftover food.

symptoms

You may see cotton stains or mold near the mouth.

White spots on gills, fins and other places.

treatment

You can use various antibiotics like kanamycin that work better in treating mouth thrush.

You can also opt for various antibacterial medications, such as phenoxyethanol.

HIT

Freshwater HITH – Head and lateral line erosion generally affects freshwater fish. This disease can affect both saltwater and freshwater fish. It is caused by Hexamita, a parasite. First it affects the intestines, the kidneys and then the liver.

symptoms

loss of appetite and illness

treatment

Add an antibiotic to the aquarium.

Offer enough food.

Is Gold Tetra right for you?

If you are planning to set up a community aquarium, golden tetras may be the perfect choice for you. You need to take good care of your fish and they are survivors. Keep the water of the aquarium clean and you can raise your little golden tetra easily. If you don’t have enough time for it, don’t go into it.

Frequently asked Questions:

How big do gold tetras get?

Before you buy a golden tetra for your aquarium, you should better know how fast and long the fish can grow and choose the tank size based on that. According to various studies, a healthy golden tetra can reach a length of up to two inches. Also, it will be best for you to stay in school at five to six per ten gallons. As an entry-level fish, the goldfish can be a perfect option for beginners.

In addition, the size of the male golden tetra differs from the size of a female golden tetra. In general, female golden tetras are larger than males and have a rounded belly. In men you will find a flat stomach.

On the other hand, a male golden tetra is bright in color and its fins are longer than others. Speaking of lifespan, it can vary between five and eight years. This makes it easy for you to spot older tetras as they look a bit longer and heavier.

Are golden tetras aggressive?

Well, golden tetras are very active and fall into the semi-aggressive pincer category. Experts therefore advise always keeping them in a community aquarium with fish of the same size or size. However, as they age, they become more sedentary. If you want to reduce fin-pinching among them, keep your golden tetra in a group of five to 6 golden tetras.

Are golden tetras easy to care for?

While some suggest that golden tetras require special care, others say they’re good for beginners since they don’t require any special care. However, the fact of the matter is that you should take good care of your tetra as they are more prone to skin diseases. Also, their immunity level is also low compared to others.

A tiny change in the aquarium water will therefore stress your fish and can even lead to their death. With all these things in mind, it can be said that gold tetras are ideal for experience fee holders. But beginners who can understand their care instructions can do so. Keep in mind that golden tetras can get sick very often. So make sure your fish have a constant water value.

How many gold tetras should be kept together?

The experienced fish keepers say golden tetras prefer to live in groups of six in an aquarium. This is an ideal number for a tank with a 20 gallon water capacity. They also pair well with peaceful community fish. You should not keep them with large or high-energy fish, which can cause stress. For example, do not keep them with angelfish or cichlids.

Can you mix golden tetras with other tetras?

Yes, you can keep different species of tetras in one tank. However, make sure there are enough types of each group to create different schools. A school will contain a certain type of tetra and they will live better if the school has enough members. If the capacity of your aquarium is 10 gallons, the number should exceed more than 6. This is perfect for most tetra species.

A little fun fact

They also call this fish the X-ray tetra! Because the golden tetra has a unique bone structure called Weber’s apparatus. This unique bone structure is used to pick up sound waves, giving it extremely keen hearing.

Conclusion

The detailed article about golden tetras contains all important information. Before you head out and head straight to your local store to buy a gold tetra, prefer to consider the information mentioned here.

Having at least that much knowledge can provide some advantages over the other hobbyist. You will understand what you are buying and how to create a perfect and comfortable habitat for your little tetra.

Gold Tetra Gold Tetra, Brass Tetra Family: Characidae Hemigrammus rodwayi Photo Wiki Commons, Couresty Daiju Azuma

The golden tetra looks like its whole body has been sprayed with gold paint!

The golden tetra Hemigrammus rodwayi is a pretty little tetra. Its golden appearance is due to a special layer on its skin that defends it against a trematode parasite. This fish is more susceptible to disease, particularly skin parasites, than many tetras. The golden color comes from “guanine” secreted by its skin to protect it from these parasites. This makes it look like it’s covered in gold dust, hence its name. It is also known as the gold tetra and brass tetra.

These tetras are pretty hardy. Some writers consider them more difficult fish to keep, but we haven’t had any unusual problems. They are not as commonly available as other more popular and colorful tetras like the neon tetra, but if you can find them they make a nice addition to the community tank.

This peaceful schooling fish can be kept in groups of 6 or more in a 15 to 20 gallon aquarium. Woodwork and floating plants to dim the lights help keep them comfortable. You don’t really need plants for interior decoration, but the aquarium can be planted on the sides and back to keep plenty of open water in the front for swimming. Twisted roots or driftwood decor that offers a few hiding places will be appreciated.

Gold tetras are considered to be somewhat more difficult to breed than other tetras. For unknown reasons, offspring tend to lose their gold coloration. They are also not allowed to be gold colored in pet stores. This may be because the gold color is not natural, but a pathological condition.

Information on keeping freshwater fish can be found at:

Freshwater Aquarium Guide: Aquarium setup and maintenance

Scientific Classification Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum chordata

Class: Actinopterygii

Order: Characiformes

Family: Characidae

Genus: Hemigrammus

Species: rodwayi

Golden tetra – Fast aquarium care Experience level for aquarists: Advanced

Mean Fish Size – inches: 1.6 inches (3.99 cm)

1.6 inch (3.99 cm) Minimum tank size: 15 gallons (57 l)

15 gal (57 L) Temperament: Peaceful

Peaceful Aquarium Hardness: Moderately difficult

Moderately difficult Temperature: 23.9 to 27.8 °C (75.0 to 82.0 °F)

Enter a Freshwater Aquarium Enter a Freshwater Aquarium My Aquarium – Enter your aquarium to see if this fish is compatible!

Habitat: Distribution/Background

The golden tetra Hemigrammus rodwayi was described by Durbin in 1909. They are found in South America in Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana and the Amazon Basin. This species is not listed on the IUCN Red List.

They inhabit flood plains as well as coastal streams where some salinity can occur. These fish have been successfully bred in captivity, but for unknown reasons, aquarium bred juveniles tend to lose their golden coloration. Other common names they are known by are gold tetra and brass tetra.

Scientific name: Hemigrammus rodwayi

Social Grouping: Groups

Groups IUCN Red List: NE – Unassessed or Unlisted

description

The golden tetra is a full-bodied species of tetra. This fish generally grows to about 1 1/2 inches (4 cm) in the home aquarium and has a lifespan of about 3 to 5 years. True to its name, it looks like gold dust has been sprinkled on its body. The golden color comes from “guanine” secreted by its skin to protect it from skin parasites. The golden tetra’s caudal fin is red on top and bottom with a black arrowhead-shaped spot in the center. The dorsal and anal fins are gold and tipped with white, and its very small, soft ray dorsal fin is also red.

The coloring of this fish depends greatly on whether it is captive bred or wild caught. Wild-caught specimens have the gold coloration as a result of secreting “guanine” to protect the skin from parasites. In captivity, this protective covering may not be secreted if the parasites are absent, so captive-bred specimens are all silver.

Fish Size – inches: 1.6 inches (3.99 cm)

1.6 inch (3.99 cm) Lifespan: 5 years – They have a lifespan of about 3 to 5 years.

Difficulty keeping fish

The golden tetra is somewhat difficult to keep and is recommended for aquarists with some aquaristic experience. Wild-caught golden tetras are particularly susceptible to disease and stress caused by changes in water conditions.

Aquarium Hardiness: Moderately difficult – specimens are often wild-caught. As such, they are generally less tolerant of fluctuating or sub-optimal conditions.

Moderately difficult – Specimens are often wild caught. As such, they are generally less tolerant of fluctuating or sub-optimal conditions. Aquarist Skill Level: Intermediate

food and feeding

Being omnivores, the golden tetra will generally eat all types of live, fresh and flake food. To keep a good balance, give them a good quality flake food daily. Feed brine shrimp (either live or frozen) or mosquito larvae as treats. When feeding, only offer what the fish can eat within a few minutes and discard excess food. These fish will overeat, so keep a close eye on them during feeding time.

Diet Type: Omnivore

Omnivore Flake Food: Yes

Yes Tablet / Pellet: Yes

Yes Live foods (fish, shrimp, worms): Some of the diet

Some of the Diet Vegetable Foods: Some of the Diet

Some of the diet Meaty food: Some of the diet

Some of the feeding frequencies: Multiple feedings per day – Offer only what they can consume in 3 minutes or less with multiple feedings per day.

aquarium care

Golden tetras are not particularly easy to care for, provided their water is kept clean. Aquariums are closed systems, and regardless of size, all require some level of maintenance. Over time, decomposing organic matter, nitrates and phosphates break down and water hardness increases through evaporation. To counteract these ever-changing conditions, the water should be replaced regularly, especially when the tank is tightly filled. At least 25 to 50% of the aquarium water should be changed every two weeks.

Water Changes: Weekly – Most established tanks can have a bi-weekly or even monthly water change if not overcrowded.

Set up an aquarium

The golden tetra does best in schools of 5 or more animals, so they will need a 15 to 20 gallon or larger aquarium. They prefer soft light and peat-filtered water. To simulate the black water they come from, simply place a mesh bag of aquarium-safe peat in the filter. Subdued lighting can be achieved by adding some floating plants.

Woodwork and floating plants keep them comfortable. A biotype setup is the best choice for this tetra and is very easy to put together. The substrate should consist of river sand. A few hiding places would be nice, so add some driftwood branches and twisted roots. When driftwood is hard to come by, an alternative is red beech that has been dried and debarked. Some dried leaves can be added to color the water and give the aquarium a natural look. Leaves should be removed and replaced every few weeks.

Minimum tank size: 57 l (15 gal)

15 gal (57 L) Suitable for Nano Tank: Yes

Yes Substrate Type: Any

All lighting requirements: Low – subdued lighting – Lower light levels bring out the best reflective properties of their pigmentation.

Low – Subdued Lighting – Lower light levels bring out the best reflective properties of their pigmentation. Temperature: 23.9 to 27.8°C (75.0 to 82.0°F)

23.9 to 27.8 °C (75.0 to 82.0 °F) Incubation Temperature: 79.0 °F – Soft water, pH 6.3, 12 °dGH and temperature are used for breeding between 79 and 84°F recommended.

79.0°F – Soft water, a pH of 6.3, 12° dGH and a temperature between 79 and 84°F is recommended for breeding. Range pH: 6.0-7.5

6.0-7.5 Hardness Range: 2-15 dGH

2 – 15 dGH brackish water: no

No Water Movement: Moderate

Medium Water Region: All – These fish will swim in all areas of the aquarium.

social behaviour

The golden tetras are ideal for a community aquarium with other peaceful fish. Be sure to keep them in groups of at least 5 or more tetras. This fish will happily swarm with its relatives like the Rose Tetra, Black Widow Tetra, White Coated Tetra, Bleeding Heart Tetra, etc. Tetras will be startled by loud noises or excessive movement outside of the tank, so position your tank accordingly.

Toxic: No

No Temper: Peaceful

Peaceful With: Conspecific – Conspecifics: Yes – These fish should be kept in a school of at least 5, more are better. Peaceful Fish (): Safe, Semi-Aggressive (): Menacing, Aggressive (): Menacing, Large, Semi-Aggressive (): Menacing, Large, Aggressive, Predatory (): Menacing, Slow Swimmers and Feeders (): Monitor – Tetras can move them around beat food . Shrimp, crabs, snails: safe – not aggressive Plants: safe

Gender: Sexual Differences

The female has a fuller abdomen. The male’s anal fin is white and he has more red than the female. The male is almost always more colorful.

Breeding / Reproduction

Gold tetras are egg layers. These fish have been successfully bred in captivity, but for reasons unknown, aquarium-bred young tend to lose their golden coloration. The most successful way these fish spawn is in groups of 12 with 6 males and 6 females. Feed this group small live food and nature should take over and spawning will begin. The female lays eggs on plants or green floss.

A separate breeding tank, about 10 gallons in size, will help get the best number of young. Keep the tank dimly lit with spawning mops or java moss so the female has a place to lay the eggs. A mesh layer will also work, as long as the gaps are wide enough for the eggs to fit through but small enough to keep the parents out. The water should be soft and acidic, with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5 and a temperature of 24 to 26°C. A small air-powered sponge filter is all that is really needed for filtering. Filtering the water through aquarium-safe peat is a good choice.

Once a successful spawn has been achieved, remove the parents. The eggs hatch within 24 to 36 hours and the fry swim freely 3 to 4 days later. Feed the fry infusoria-type food for the first few days until they can feed on microworms or Artemia nauplii. Young fish are sensitive to light in the initial phase and need an environment that is as dark as possible. See Breeding Freshwater Fish: Tetras for a general description of the breeding processes and see Fish Food for Juveniles for information on types of food used to raise the young.

Ease of Breeding: Moderate – A separate breeding tank is required. The breeding pair spawns on vegetation and should be removed afterwards.

fish diseases

Golden tetras are prone to developing eczema and fungi if their aquarium water is not kept clean enough. Also remember that anything you add to your tank can introduce disease. Not only other fish, but also plants, substrates and decorations can harbor bacteria. Be very careful and make sure you properly clean or quarantine anything you add to an established tank so as not to upset the balance.

One good thing about these tetras is that they can be used as markers of poor water conditions, allowing the observing aquarist to spot problems early on. When keeping more sensitive fish species, it is common for all fish to be infected before the first warning signs can be noticed. The best way to proactively prevent disease is to provide the right environment and a balanced diet. The more similar their environment is to their natural habitat, the less stress the fish experience, making them healthier and happier. Stressed fish are more likely to get sick.

Like most fish, golden tetras are susceptible to skin flukes, parasitic infestations (protozoa, worms, etc.), ichthyobodo infections, parasitic infestations (protozoa, worms, etc.), bacterial infections (general), and bacterial diseases. Golden tetras are fairly hardy, but they are susceptible to disease even in a well-maintained tank. Aquarists should learn about common aquarium diseases. Knowing the signs and identifying and treating them early makes a big difference. For freshwater fish diseases and diseases, see Aquarium Fish Diseases and Treatments.

Availability

The golden tetra is occasionally available at pet stores and online and is moderately priced.

references

Author: Clarice Brough CFS, David Brough CFS, Jeremy Roche

Congo Tetra Care & Information

Congo Tetra Care & Information

When most people think of aquarium fish that originate from African waters, they immediately think of the African cichlids from the Rift Lakes. But did you know that there is much more? Some of the most beautiful species available in the aquarium trade are actually found in Africa. One of them is the Congo Tetra, an absolute gem with flowing fins and shimmering shades of orange and blue.

Read on for everything you need to know to keep the Congo Tetra in your own aquarium!

Congo Tetra (Phenacogrammus interruptus) description

The Congo Tetra makes quite a spectacular addition to the aquarium thanks to its intense orange coloration and metallic blue tones that can shimmer from the right angle. Although the smaller females are significantly less colorful than the males and lack flowing fins, they are still very beautiful to look at.

With a maximum size of 3 inches, these fish are a bit larger than we usually imagine when we think of tetras. In a correspondingly large shoal they are a great eye-catcher for your aquarium and a popular choice for African biotope aquariums due to their relatively easy maintenance.

Name (Common, Scientific) Congo Tetra, Phenacogrammus interruptus Minimum Tank Size 30 Gallons Minimum Group Size 8 Temperature 75-81°F pH 6.0-7.5 Difficulty Moderate

Congo Tetra (Phenacogrammus interruptus) aquarium

If you are looking to set up a Congo Tetra aquarium, the best route to take is the heavily planted African biotope style. This allows you to really see the amazing colors of this species: in bare aquariums they can become stressed and fade to a dull gray. Any plant will work, but if you want to keep it specific to the species’ natural habitat, you can use the common Anubias. Be sure to leave some room to swim as well, as the Congo Tetra is an active swimmer that likes to have some freedom of movement.

Because the Congo Tetra is a large and active fish that should be kept in schools, it is not a good choice for smaller aquariums. Something like a 55 gallon tank is probably the smallest to consider for 8-12 congo tetras. A smaller school is not an option as these tetras tend to be shy and visibly uncomfortable with a lack of security. The water should be soft and acidic.

When it comes to aquarium mates, choose species that won’t bother the shy Congo Tetra too much. Special care must be taken to avoid fish that could bite the long fins of the males, which are irresistible to some species. Friendly catfish, other schooling fish and peaceful little cichlids make good neighbors for your Congo Tetra. Other long-finned species should also be ruled out because although they are peaceful and shy, the Congo Tetra itself can be a bit nimble at times.

Maintain Congo Tetra (Phenacogrammus interruptus).

The waters in which the Congo Tetra lives naturally are fast flowing and clean, meaning this species does not respond well to less than ideal water conditions in the aquarium. You need to keep a close eye on your water quality and perform regular water changes to avoid problems. Don’t overcrowd the aquarium and avoid shocking the fish with sudden changes in water consistency.

In terms of diet, Congo Tetras are omnivores and not at all picky. A good quality mini pellet or flake food works well as a staple, although you should also make sure to change things up regularly. Thawed frozen food is highly appreciated, although it is live food that will really generate enthusiasm for this species. You can also try green-based foods like spirulina tabs.

Conclusion

A West African biotope aquarium that mimics the Congo Tetra’s natural habitat, the Congo River Basin, would make a fascinating addition to any home. Not sure how to set one up? This is where we come in: just contact us and we will set up your dream aquarium.

For various reasons, many aquarists like to keep different species of fish in the same tank. It can be a fantastic thing if you know the right species of fish to keep together, but if you don’t you may end up regretting it. In this post, I’ll focus on goldfish and neon tetras so you can learn everything you need to know to put them together.

Can neon tetras live with goldfish? No, I don’t advise putting them together because they thrive in different temperatures, in different environments, and goldfish can quickly grow large enough to eat your neon tetras. This is clearly not suitable for neon tetras or goldfish. And it probably isn’t for you, the hobbyist either, I guess!

While there are many species of fish that CAN be matched, goldfish and neon tetras are not the best partners. This is due to their different nature (as you will soon find out). However, in this article you will learn which fish you can easily combine with these two.

The nature of the goldfish

Goldfish are one of the most popular pet fish available at pet stores. They are also fantastic for your aquarium, not only because of their beautiful color but because they are easy to keep compared to many other species of fish.

Goldfish grow big very quickly. They are not suitable for aquariums as even the smallest goldfish available can grow to 4-7 inches. Some adult goldfish can reach 18 inches and weigh up to 10 pounds.

Although many different factors have been found to affect a goldfish’s growth including diet, tank health, etc., the size of the tank has also been shown to influence a goldfish’s development.

Depending on these factors and the species of goldfish, you may find one up to 2 feet long and one as short as 1 inch. Big or not so big, one fact about goldfish is that their growth rate is always fast.

Goldfish are omnivores, which means they can eat both meat and vegetables. They like to eat frogs, insect larvae, newts, fish eggs, vegetation and other small fish.

Although common goldfish species eat pelleted fish food and vegetables very well, there are some that require some live food in their diet to avoid intestinal problems.

The claim that goldfish don’t live very long is just a myth as they are one of the longest-lived pets. The oldest living goldfish was recorded at 49 years! If you keep them in good condition, there is a high probability that they will live a long time. Despite knowing their growth potential, some people still keep goldfish in bowls.

Goldfish kept in bowls have been found to have the shortest lifespans – they only live up to five years. If you have an indoor aquarium for your goldfish they can live up to 10 years and if you have an outdoor pond they can live at least 20 years if the water is healthy. However, they are quite messy and can easily contaminate the water. Compared to some species of fish, they prefer a cooler temperature of around 23-24°C.

The nature of neon tetra

The neon tetra is very popular with aquarists because it is simply beautiful. It has stunning colors – red, blue and also partly translucent.

In general, the neon tetra is a small fish, averaging just 1.5 inches in size, although the longer ones can be as large as 2.5 inches. Not only does their translucency serve to make them pretty — sometimes it helps them hide from their predators.

Hobbyists like to keep them because they are not only beautiful, but also peaceful and very gentle. They’re not hard to come by either. They don’t like being alone and therefore you would treat them better if you put them in a school of around 15 members.

The more members, the happier they are, and it’s a win-win for everyone, because the more you have, the more beautiful your aquarium will be.

Tetras are very sensitive to changes in water conditions. This means they are not the best fish to put in a newly run tank; You will do much better in an established one. It is not advisable to keep them with fish that like to mix up the water. Compared to some fish, they enjoy warmer water.

Your ideal water temperature is between 28-30°C. When kept indoors they can live up to 5 years, but when kept in a healthy outdoor pond their lifespan increases to around 8 years. Because they don’t grow as large, they enjoy being aquarium mates with fish of the same size.

Why aren’t they compatible?

There are several factors to consider when deciding on the compatibility of fish species. In the case of neon tetras and goldfish, the most important factors include the size of the two fish and their different requirements in terms of temperature and water conditions.

The biggest problem, however, is the nature of the goldfish – and that makes keeping them with smaller fish wrong. Goldfish, like other large omnivorous fish species, will often eat anything they find in the water that is edible and small enough!

That means when they are very small, it should be fine to put goldfish and neon tetras in the same tank. However, you’ll need to separate them quickly once the goldfish start to grow (and as we know, they grow very quickly!).

They grow very quickly and before you know it they have grown big enough to devour some neon tetras, especially if you have extremely small tetras.

It’s not just about size. It is also evident that the goldfish prefer cooler water temperatures than the neon tetras. You can’t overstate the importance of keeping your fish at the right temperature. It really has an impact on everything – their health, growth, activity levels, etc.

Also, neon tetras love being in a school. Although they hate being isolated, they hate being put in a tank with some fish that would pose a threat even more.

Neon tetras are very peaceful and easy-going. When in the same water as larger fish, they are less active as they are aware that they could be eaten. This, of course, reduces their overall activity level, which has a major impact on their health.

Neon tetras are very sensitive to changes in water conditions. Although they are not very demanding, keeping them requires hobbyists to make an extra effort to ensure their aquarium is neat and tidy. This is almost impossible when you put them together with goldfish. Goldfish are very messy and neon tetras really don’t do well in dirty water.

What if you don’t have two tanks now?

If you have tetras and small goldfish, you can put them together for the first four months. The goldfish is the threat here, and by four months they shouldn’t be big enough to cause too much chaos.

In addition, they cannot eat their partners, the neon tetras, so early. But as they approach six months, they can begin to display all of the menacing traits we’ve outlined above. In general, the best place to keep goldfish is in ponds, outdoors, or in very large tanks.

Neon tetras can be kept together in a school in a small tank. So if you add some goldfish, just consider the goldfish strangers and plan to remove them, not the tetras.

There are two reasons for this: first, goldfish growth can be adversely affected by a small tank, and second, neon tetras are sensitive to change. They should not be moved too often.

related questions

Do tetras get along with goldfish?

Yes, tetras can get along with goldfish, as they can with some other species of fish, but the goldfish can make the water too dirty for them, and large goldfish will also eat tetras. While tetras get along with goldfish, goldfish don’t get along with tetras, it’s that simple!

What fish can live with goldfish?

Only species of fish that can survive in the same water conditions and are not eaten by goldfish can be their aquarium mates. This includes other goldfish, weather or dojo loaches, rose barbel, rubbernose and bristle catfish, etc. Just make sure they are fish that grow the same size and can survive in the dirty water.

Which fish do neon tetras get along with?

Neon tetras will just enjoy having tankmates that are just as small, peaceful, and don’t make a mess everywhere. Some examples of suitable aquarium mates are guppies, African dwarf frogs, angelfish, apple snails, red tetras, armored catfish, ghost shrimp, etc.

Betta fish and goldfish are two types of popular fish that many local fish keepers would love to see living together in the same tank.

When initially considering an aquarium setup, it’s important to remember that just because two species of fish look beautiful together doesn’t mean they will necessarily get along!

Our goal today is to take a look at some of the similarities and differences between bettas and goldfish, along with a few different fish species that you might want to consider.

Follow us as we share how to keep our goldfish and betta fish happy and content when they are neighbors in the same tank.

Can Goldfish and Betta live together?

The short answer to this question is yes, but with some important caveats. While bettas and goldfish can technically live together in the same tank, the more aggressive behavior of bettas combined with goldfish’s greater spatial needs means this may not be the best arrangement.

Just because both fish interact well with humans doesn’t mean they get along!

Both fish interact well with humans but may not get along if placed together.

From a biological point of view, bettas are true tropical fish and therefore prefer warmer temperatures, while goldfish are largely considered cold-water fish. This difference in requirements can be difficult to manage in a tank and the risk of causing a dangerous thermal shock is real.

Would a betta kill a goldfish?

While a betta would not normally kill a goldfish, there are many other things to consider when looking at their compatibility in general.

Do they get along?

Regardless of the fish’s personality, bettas and goldfish don’t get along due to their different habitats and dietary needs. If you are letting goldfish live with betta fish, a larger tank can be a good first step in encouraging good tank mates.

In order for betta fish to coexist with goldfish, compromises may have to be made that can negatively impact the health of both.

The warmer temperatures required for betta fish can make goldfish more easily sick or infected with parasites, and colder temperatures can do the same to your healthy betta.

Betta Fish Basics

Betta in the blue background

Also known as the Siamese fighting fish, the Betta splendens that many know and love has an undue reputation as an aggressive tropical fish. Wild Bettas were first found in the warm waters of Thailand and eventually made their way to the domestic market in the mid 1920’s with the explosive growth of hobby aquariums.

In reality, it is only the male betta fish that earns this reputation as a fighting fish, fiercely defending its territory and fighting other fish during the breeding season. Male Bettas are quite pincers and will use both a display of fin and gill expansion and an actual fight to get their way.

FUN Bettas in captivity bear little resemblance to their wild counterparts, as captive breeding over many generations transformed them into the beautiful creatures we see today.

Pinched Fins A fish with pinched fins can have trouble swimming, and being injured can seem even more dangerous when it actually has a disease like fin rot. As a general rule, any pet fish suspected of having diseases such as fin rot or swim bladder disease should be immediately transferred to a quarantine tank for observation. Betta fish are adaptable, hardy fish when it comes to tank size and can tolerate conditions from a tiny bowl to a larger tank system.

life span

Bettas live up to 3 years.

size

Betta fish grow from 1 to 2.5 inches long depending on the size of the tail. If you need more information on betta size, check out my article on how big a betta can get here.

diet

Betta fish are carnivores by nature and feed exclusively on proteins such as fly larvae, brine shrimp and small fish debris. Unlike goldfish, a betta can never have too much meat!

behavior/temperament

When considering attitude, it is important to note that bettas tend to be more solitary by nature. These tropical fish will attempt to confront others they perceive as a threat to their territory or mates.

habitat

Warm fresh water with varietal substrate similar to their native waters in Thailand and Cambodia in Southeast Asia.

If you are interested in keeping bettas, here is my article on what type of water bettas need. Despite being one of the hardiest freshwater species, they need the right type of water to thrive.

Goldfish Basics

Oranda goldfish in black background

Today’s common goldfish, or Carrasius auratus, is a small fish compared to its ancestor, the wild Prussian carp of Central Asia.

The wild carp was originally domesticated and farmed for its meat, but breeders eventually found that by selecting for appearance they could successfully sell to private collectors.

These new chic goldfish far eclipsed their ancestors and paved the way for today’s aquariums.

life span

The lifespan of goldfish differs dramatically from that of bettas. With proper care, a goldfish will live around 10-15 years, but can live up to 25 years! Learn about the factors that affect their lifespan and how you can improve it with this How Long Do Goldfish Live? article

size

Typically between 1.5 and 2 inches but can reach up to 14 in a large enough tank!

For more information, our article on how big goldfish get provides more details on goldfish size.

diet

Unlike bettas, goldfish prefer an omnivorous diet, meaning they can eat a variety of plants and proteins.

behavior/temperament

Goldfish are considered very friendly fish and get along well with most other fish.

habitat

Cooler water temperature on rocky or varied ground.

tank conditions

When thinking about tank setup, bettas and goldfish generally need different conditions to thrive, but there is some overlap in the things that make them most comfortable.

Bettas and goldfish both enjoy having items like rocks, toys, driftwood, and plants in their tank, albeit in different ways.

Goldfish prefer a more open space for swimming, while bettas like to hide in nooks and crannies between rocks and plants.

A tank that makes one fish happy may make the other less comfortable, so it may be best to create a separate tank environment for each.

tank size

Aquarium

For betta fish, a 2 gallon tank is the recommended minimum betta aquarium size to accommodate adequate space, with 5-10 gallons being highly recommended. Remember, just because a betta can survive in tight quarters doesn’t mean it will enjoy it!

Goldfish prefer more space, and a 20-gallon tank is the recommendation. Considering that a goldfish can reach up to 20 inches in length if given space, it’s also important to remember that spatial needs can change as the fish grows throughout its life.

temperature requirements

As previously mentioned, betta fish and goldfish ideally prefer different water temperatures, making it a challenge to keep both in the same tank.

As a cold-water fish, goldfish generally enjoy water temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees.

However, they are adaptable and tolerate water up to 80 degrees. Betta fish, on the other hand, typically do not do well in temperatures outside their comfort range of 75-85 degrees and can suffer from wild swings.

cleanliness of the water

Goldfish have a reputation for being extremely dirty fish that produce large amounts of waste that can cause ammonia spikes in aquarium water and even cause ammonia poisoning in other fish. Therefore, extreme attention must be paid to conditions, and frequent water changes should be considered.

TIP When monitoring the tank, be aware of the water surface for excessive growth (e.g. foam). Frequent partial water changes are key to avoiding ammonia poisoning in the tank, and aquarium cleanliness is a top priority.

water movement

Given the large amount of waste goldfish can produce, it’s important to use a high-flow filter.

Unfortunately, bettas are not the strongest swimmers and may have trouble moving in a tank with a lot of water movement.

A compromise when trying to keep both goldfish and betta fish in the same tank can be a small, low powered bubbler to filter the betta tank while allowing them to move easily through the water. Read this article Do Betta Fish Need a Bubbler if you want to learn more about bubblers.

Betta tankmates

Given their reputation, it may come as little surprise that betta fish can present a challenge when shopping at pet stores when paired with appropriate aquarium mates

“Can you put two bettas together?” was a question for many aquarists. Well, Bettafish prefer relative solitude, and as such, extra space can be helpful in protecting other residents from their territorial aggression.

Female Bettas are generally much calmer than males who will start fighting as soon as they see each other.

Therefore, we recommend finding a female if you decide to let betta fish coexist with goldfish.

Goldfish tankmates

As a very social creature, the goldfish can get along with many different species of fish. As a community animal, these fish can actually suffer when living alone. We recommend having at least one other fish to keep the goldfish sufficiently stimulated and healthy over the long term.

NOTE An important (albeit cruel) factor to keep in mind is that goldfish are omnivores and will attempt to eat any fish that can fit in their mouths, including your beautiful bettas!

Is it worth keeping betta and goldfish together?

While betta fish and goldfish can technically live together in the same tank, it must be recognized that this can present great difficulties and health risks for both fish. As such, we recommend that bettas live with goldfish as a last resort should an emergency occur in one of their separate tanks.

Here is a video of bettas and goldfish together in an aquarium

Betta fish and goldfish together

The fact that bettas require a temperature that is on the higher end of the range that goldfish can live in, coupled with the increased threat of litter-borne diseases, makes it difficult to recommend keeping the two together.

Conclusion

Throughout today’s article, we have seen that the key components that determine our fish’s happiness (temperature, housing, environmental needs) are very different between goldfish and betta fish.

Attempting to get to grips with all of these factors can be incredibly difficult, even for the professional, and we would not recommend it for the occasional aquarium owner.

As always, thank you for taking the time to read this article. I wish you the best of luck in your aquarium adventure and remember to share it with any other fish fanatics you may know! If you’re looking for accessories for a 20 gallon tank, we also have helpful reviews on filters, heaters, and hoods.

references

If you’re like me, you’re probably wondering what new fish to add to your tank. And if so, then you’ve obviously wondered: “Can guppies and neon tetras live together?” In this article you will find out whether they can live together or not, and most importantly, what ideal conditions you need for this!

So read on to find out!

Can guppies and neon tetras live together?

YUP! Guppies and neon tetras make excellent tankmates when conditions are right. However, if the conditions are wrong, it can end up causing problems in the aquarium.

So before you put guppies and neon tetras together, be sure to read the rest of the article to make sure you’re doing it in a safe way for them.

Temperament of guppies and neon tetras

Before you put them together, you should be aware of the temperament of each fish. Knowing each fish’s temperament can help you better understand what it needs in the aquarium to stay happy.

Guppy Temperament

Guppies are extremely peaceful fish that will not cause any problems in your aquarium. In fact, they can occasionally be picked up depending on the tankmates they have. Finally, their long tails are a prime target for fin-biters.

While it is extremely rare for them to be aggressive towards other fish, it is not uncommon for male guppies to be aggressive towards one another. Especially if there are not enough females in the tank.

Ideally you want to have 1 male guppy for every 2 females to reduce the likelihood of aggression.

You should also be aware that guppies are bred very often and give birth to live young fish. While most juvenile fish will be eaten by the other fish in your tank, there are times when they might survive to adulthood.

This means you may end up with more guppies than planned.

Neon Tetra Temperament

Neon tetras are also peaceful fish, especially when the right conditions are met. However, they may nibble the fins of other fish in your tank (including guppies). This is much more common when their needs are not being met.

The two main needs they have are to be kept in a school of at least 6 animals. That they have adequate swimming space (15 gallons minimum) and that there are plenty of hiding spots for them.

If you keep all of this in mind, you will have happy neon tetras living peacefully in your aquarium!

Remember: With both neon tetras and guppies, it is extremely important that you never keep a fish alone, but keep them in a shoal or shoal.

(Find out if guppies can live with angelfish.)

Habitat and tank requirements

Next, you need to consider the habitat and tank requirements of both fish. Because if the tank is designed for one and not the other, it could leave a group unhappy and even sick.

Guppy habitat and tank requirements

Guppies are native to freshwater streams in South America but are also found elsewhere as well as in brackish water.

Luckily, there are only a few things you need to know about their tank requirements. First, make sure the tank is densely covered with vegetation that will give them plenty of hiding spots. Some great beginner plants are Anubias nana, java fern, and java moss. Second, make sure the flow in the tank isn’t too strong either.

And finally, if you want, you can also add driftwood, rocks and a nice substrate to make them feel more at home.

Finally, guppies need to be kept in a tank that is at least 5 gallons in size. But if you plan to stick to the recommended amount, then 10 gallons is much better for you. The temperature should be between 74-82°F and the pH should be between 6.8-7.8.

Habitat and tank requirements for neon tetras

Neon tetras are very similar to guppies in terms of habitat. They, too, are most likely found in slow-flowing streams and rivers in South America. Unlike guppies, however, the aquatic neon tetras are usually a bit cloudier and darker.

This is due to the canopies that hang over them, as well as foliage, tree roots, and dense vegetation in the rivers they swim in.

When setting up your aquarium to keep your neon tetra happy, keep this in mind. So try not only to fill it with lots of plants for your guppies, but also add some Indian almond leaves and driftwood.

It is best to use a dark substrate and make sure that your aquarium is not too bright. Finally, you should not put neon tetras in a new tank. They can be sensitive to changes in tank water parameters, meaning they could die if conditions change too much.

Neon tetras must be kept in a tank that is at least 15 gallons in size. But if you are housing 6 neon tetras, you should opt for a minimum tank size of 20. Also, neon tetras are horizontal swimmers, so make sure you use a tank that has length over height.

The water temperature must be between 70°F and 81°F and the pH between 6.0 and 7.0.

(Find out if guppies and platies can live together.)

diet

Now you can see that neon tetras and guppies can live together exceptionally well. The next step is to find out what they are feeding.

Guppies and neon tetras are omnivores, so it’s important that you feed them a mixture of meat and plant matter. Typically, quality fish flakes and pellets contain both. However, you should not rely entirely on these.

They should also balance their diet with live food, and if you can’t get live food often then freeze dried or frozen.

Some of the best live foods to feed them are mosquito larvae and daphnia. You can also occasionally use bloodworms, but remember that they are extremely fatty and should be given sparingly.

You can also supplement your diet with vegetables. Just make sure you cook them a little first. Cucumber, peas, and lettuce are all good choices.

When feeding your neon tetras, make sure you don’t do this more than twice a day, and don’t overfeed them either. Fish are good and they will keep eating no matter what.

(Find out if guppies and gouramis can live together.)

This increases your chances of success

If you put two different species together, you should do whatever it takes to increase the chances of success. Here are a few ways you can improve the odds.

Make sure there are plenty of hiding places

Hiding places are ideal to make your fish feel safe. And the more secure they feel, the less likely they are to become aggressive. While aggression isn’t common, fin-clipping can be. And you can reduce the risk of fin biting by using plants, driftwood, and ornaments to create hiding spots.

Keep them in sufficiently large schools/shoals

Second, you should make sure they are kept with enough of their own kind. When they’re not with their own kind, they get stressed. You should keep at least 6 tetras or 3 guppies together.

If you don’t, not only will their lifespans likely decrease, but they’re also more likely to start sipping.

Make sure the tank is big enough

And finally, make sure your tank is big enough to hold all the fish. As a very general rule of thumb, you should only keep 1 inch of fish per gallon of water. So if you have a 2 inch fish they will need 2 gallons of water.

If you don’t keep them in a large enough tank, not only will the bioburden become too much for the filter, but they will also become more aggressive towards each other.

(Guppies and cherry shrimp can also make great tankmates! Find out how to make it happen!)

recap

So can guppies and neon tetras live together? As you can see, not only can they live together, but they also make fantastic tankmates. However, if you want to keep them together, make sure you add plenty of hiding places and give them enough space.

Neon tetras should be kept in a flock of 6 and guppies in a flock of 3. They both have the same diet, just make sure to keep it varied and use quality food.

Personally I wouldn’t keep them together in a tank smaller than 20 gallons and make sure the tank has more length than height!

If you enjoyed this article, be sure to check out the rest of the site! And if you have more questions, you can ask them in the Q&A section!

A tetra is a freshwater fish with four dorsal fins and four anal fins. It is also known as the Paracheirodon in the aquarium trade. Tetra fish are popular in home aquariums because they are one of the few freshwater fish that can survive in low-oxygen conditions. There are a plethora of tetra species that have already been discovered, but you may be wondering, “What is the rarest tetra?”.

In this article, we will list some of the rarest tetra species and their characteristics that set them apart from common tetra species.

Rare tetra species

Rainbow tetra (Nematobrycon lacortei)

Photo by: Pinterest

The rainbow tetra is also sometimes referred to as a rainbow fish, meaning it has a specific body color that changes to red-orange in shades of gold, green, and orange when you view it from different angles or backlit sources, such as windows and lamps . They’re really small compared to other tetras, so they’re usually just for nano aquariums, but they look adorable. It is a shy fish and prefers to live in colonies of at least six animals. In the wild, they can be found in fast-flowing rivers and streams with lots of vegetation. They eat small invertebrates and plants. The rainbow tetra is hardy and can be kept in most aquariums provided there is plenty of plant life for it to graze on and some decent rocks or hiding spots when it is uncomfortable. They usually prefer warm water but can be kept with some cold water fish if there are other residents of the tank that do well in other temperature zones.

Black tetra (Gymnocorymbus ternetzi)

Close up of black tetra

The black tetra is a tetra fish that exists in three different color varieties; light blue, yellow and orange. Although there are many species of black tetra in the aquarium trade, only a few may still be alive as some pet stores have run out of stock due to high demand from owners, which explains more about these particular species of black tetra. This fish has a very long and slender body with four pectoral fins and four anal fins.

Black phantom tetra (Hyphessobrycon megalopterus)

The black phantom tetra (Hyphessobrycon megalopterus), or simply phantom tetra, is a small freshwater fish in the Characidae family of the order Characiformes.

The black phantom tetra is a freshwater fish that appears completely translucent under bright lights. They’re really rare because the brighter the light source, the better you can see their translucent body. Its different eggs can be very dark colors, but the brightness of sunlight depends on how deep they live in their home ranges, which are not well explored.

Dwarf tetra (Hyphessobrycon amandae)

Ember Tetra or Hyphessobrycon amandae in planted tropical freshwater aquarium

The pygmy tetra, also known as the gluttetra, is a tetrafish that grows to only about 2 inches long. In the wild, they often hide among plants and rocks, so it’s not uncommon for them to be rarer than other tetra species. They have sensitive skin and need a lot of space in their tank to swim. They are not the best choice for new fish owners as they can be difficult to keep healthy and alive. A sufficiently large tank is important for them, as well as plenty of hiding places and plants to hide under. They feed on small invertebrates, so they need quality fish food that contains meat-based proteins.

Red laser tetra (Hemigrammus coeruleus)

This tetra will definitely stand out in your aquarium with its bright red body, yellow and green iridescence, and highly visible red lasers. They are relatively easy to keep as they thrive in a planted tank with plenty of hiding places and a good feeding ability.

Red Cherry Tetra (Hyphessobrycon sp.)

Longfin Serpae Tetra Barb Hyphessobrycon eques aquarium fish

The red cherry tetra is a relatively small tetra that stands out due to its dark red, cherry-colored body. They are not as active as some other tetras and prefer to spend their time hiding among plants or rocks in your aquarium. They thrive when kept with other temperate fish species but can be aggressive towards smaller bottom feeders.

Glowlight Tetra (Hemigrammus erythrozonus)

Tropical aquarium fish Glowlight Tetra or Hemigrammus erythrozonus, silver in color and with a bright orange to red stripe. macro view. Black background and copy space.

There are several species of Glowlight Tetra and they seem to be the tastiest species available in aquariums. Glow Tetras feed on small organisms, so their bodies exhibit bioluminescent luminescence containing blue and green lights that flicker at night, especially when active underground, e.g. B. digging a tunnel or eating plankton that swims around them, but during the day these tetras still glow brightly. Glow tetras resemble small fireflies and create a wonderful effect when seen in groups of four or more juveniles during the night they feed on the same food, but owners must provide adequate light so that they can see them diving, unlike other species that just stay around not minding their own thing. In addition, the glow-light tetra is a tetra that can easily be kept in a planted aquarium. It is also one of the few tetras that get along well with other fish species. They are active swimmers and hunt for food, so it’s best to keep them in groups of at least six.

Banded tetra (Astyanax fasciatus)

The banded tetra is another type of tetra that has dark stripes around the body. This makes them a little harder to find in the wild, but they make a great addition to a well-established aquarium. They are also among the more peaceful fish, preferring to live in colonies of at least six animals. They eat small invertebrates and plants. The banded tetra is a good choice for new fish owners as it is relatively easy to keep healthy and requires less maintenance than some other tetra species. They do well in most aquariums provided there is plenty of plant life to feed on and some decent rocks or bog wood to hide under.

Blue tetra (Boehlkea fredcochui)

Small beauty Blue Tetra (Boehlkea fredcochui) in planted tropical freshwater aquarium

The blue tetra is not known at all in the wild and is only kept as an aquarium fish. They can grow very large, but don’t live long either. In addition, they are usually sold as small juvenile fish, but they grow very quickly and can be dangerous to other fish. This fish prefers lots of vegetation in its tank, so it’s not the best choice for a plant-only tank. They are usually docile and easy to care for, as long as they have enough hiding places and little light. They feed primarily on small invertebrates, but will also eat plant matter when given the opportunity.

Blue-eyed Congo Tetra (Phenacogrammus aurantiacus)

Small beauty Blue Tetra (Boehlkea fredcochui) in planted tropical freshwater aquarium

The Blue-Eyed Congo Tetra has a unique method of camouflage, resembling plant life almost perfectly when spawning directly on land, rather than conspicuously swimming around looking for plants to hide behind. Only individuals smaller than migratory female fish have been caught in their biologically protected habitat, so these tetra species are rarely found in the wild.

Blueberry Tetra (Hyphessobrycon wadai)

Photo by: Pinterest

This tetra shares some similar distinguishing features, including its double-band coloration and its distinctive blue body coloration with a bright red belly when first acquired by aquarists. However, this tetra is destined to be a much more popular pet among fish lovers due to its rather quirky and peculiar coloring! The blueberry tetra’s body begins with an iridescent slate-grey coloration that persists over time as white droplets along the top of the head are rubbed off or lost altogether.

Congo Tetras are beautiful and fun to watch, largely thanks to their distinctive rainbow coloration and long caudal fin.

Their peaceful nature and low maintenance make them an excellent addition to your community aquarium.

So in this guide, I’m going to walk you through everything you need to know to successfully take care of congo tetras.

Congo Tetra Appearance and Origin

The species of Congo Tetra (Phenacogrammus interruptus) is native to Africa, specifically around the Congo Basin in Zaire. They enjoy swimming in streams, swamps, pools, and tributaries as long as the water is acidic and shady.

Congo Tetras can grow up to 4.5 inches in their natural habitat. However, farm grown ones typically range in length from 3 to 3.5 inches.

The bodies of the Congo Tetra are long and flat. They also have large scales, but what makes this species truly unique is the rainbow glow that shows up on their bodies in certain lighting conditions, with blue dominating their heads and bellies. There is also a distinctive shade of red and gold in the middle of her body.

Congo Tetra Care Statistics Overview

Common name: Congo Tetra

Congo Tetra tank size: 30 gallons min.

30 gallons min. Temperature: 72°F to 82°F

72°F to 82°F pH: 6.0 – 7.5

6.0 – 7.5 kHz: 3 to 18 dGH

3 to 18 dGH Residential area: Congo river basin

Congo River Basin Temperament: Peaceful and schooling

Peaceful and schooling diet: omnivores

Scientific Classifications

Kingdom: Animalia

Animalia tribe: Chordata

Chordata class: Actinopterygii

Actinopterygii order: Characiformes

Characiformes Family: Alestidae

Alestidae Genus: Phenacogrammus

Phenacogrammus species: P. interruptus

life span

Congo Tetras can live between 3 and 5 years. This is considered the average lifespan of most fish species kept in aquariums. Several factors play a role, e.g. B. how well you feed your congo tetras, how you take care of them and whether the environment is suitable for them.

Sexual dimorphism: size, color, and markings

The main difference between male and female Congo Tetras is that males tend to have longer fins with a white-edged purplish color. Males are also significantly larger than females and have lighter colors.

Females, on the other hand, are predominantly golden with a silvery-green hue.

Congo Tetra Care & tank body

This is how you can set up a water tank for your Congo Tetra:

Tank size for Congo Tetra

As a general rule of thumb, you will need a minimum tank size of 30 gallons for your Congo Tetra. Some people go as low as 20 gallons, but we don’t recommend that. Congo Tetra like to live in large communities, so less than 30 gallons may not be enough.

How many Congo Tetras can be kept together?

You can keep as many Congo Tetras as you like, but for larger communities you will need larger tanks. The Congo Tetra is a shoal species, meaning they like to swim around in groups. It is recommended to keep no less than 6 Congo Tetras together.

The nitrogen cycle

The nitrogen cycle is a common pitfall that, despite its importance, most beginners are unaware of. It ensures that the aquarium ecosystem is safe for fish. Nitrogen cycle skipping is one of the most common destroyers of fish communities.

The nitrogen cycle occurs in nature to make the water safe for fish, and you need to replicate it in your aquarium if you want your congo tetras to live long, healthy lives.

Basically, the nitrogen cycle eliminates the harmful waste products your fish produces. Whenever your fish release waste, ammonia spreads throughout the tank, which is toxic to fish.

To cycle your tank, you need to introduce ammonia into the water by adding fish waste or uneaten fish food. The ammonia builds up until it reaches peak levels, then slowly decreases as the bacteria eating it begin to form.

When ammonia levels drop, nitrate is produced, which converts ammonia into nitrites. Just like the first step in cycling your tank, nitrites will build up and bacteria will start to form, converting the nitrites back into nitrates.

At this point you need to monitor the tank until the ammonia and nitrate levels reach 0 ppm. To maintain this, you need to do partial water changes 2-4 times a month.

For more information on the nitrogen cycle and what it means, check out this guide.

water parameters

Contrary to popular belief, fish communities do not need very specific water parameters to thrive. Stable water conditions are particularly important here. Sharp fluctuations in water parameters can be fatal to your fish, which is why you need to constantly measure them to make sure they are stable.

Here is a brief overview of the acceptable water parameter ranges for Congo Tetra:

Temperature: 72°F to 82°F

72°F to 82°F pH: 6.0 to 7.5

6.0 to 7.5 Hardness: 3 to 18 dGH

There are many ways to lower the pH of the water. For example, you can add a catappa leaf to your aquarium. Driftwood would do the job too. Also, consider opting for reverse osmosis, which is essentially a way of cleaning the water of contaminants, ultimately reducing the acidity of the water.

tank body

Setting up your tank for your congo tetra does not require any special equipment. You’ll need the basic aquascaping tools, including straight and curved tweezers and scissors, in addition to a spatula. You will also need some tools to keep an eye on the water parameters, such as: B. a pH meter.

In their natural habitat, Congo Tetras are attracted to dark substrates. You can use sand, mud, and silt as substrates as long as they are dark in color.

Additionally, Congo Tetras like to nibble on carpet plants, so make sure you include hardy plants that can withstand some damage. Not only will they make your Congo Tetra happier, but they will also add a touch of beauty to your aquarium. Not to mention they make the perfect hiding spots for your congo tetra when they’re scared.

As for the water, Congo Tetras prefer calm, soft water, so make sure the water flow is as little as possible. They love to mingle in the water a lot, so adding a few decorations would make them more fun. You can use driftwood, stones, twisted roots for this purpose.

Finally, in their natural habitats, Congo Tetra are found in murky waters, which is why they prefer subdued lighting in captivity. You can use a small, low-intensity light bulb. It is also preferable that you keep the tank in a dark room most of the time.

Diet & Feeding Congo Tetra

Congo Tetras are omnivores. In their natural habitat, they feed on algae, worms, insects, plants and crustaceans.

In captivity, you can feed them dried pellets or flakes. Also, try including a mix of bloodworms, brine shrimp, tubifex, and daphnia in their diet. They are high in protein, which is essential for growth. They also contain omega-3 and 6 fatty acids, which are essential for maintaining the Congo Tetra’s bright colors.

Oh, and don’t forget the vitamins; A small amount of vegetables would be ideal for this.

Just take a look at the ingredients of any commercially prepared fish food you receive, as not all are healthy for your Congo Tetra. Many fish food products contain fillers that prevent your fish from getting the nutrients they need and produce more waste, requiring you to do more frequent water changes.

Avoid fish foods that contain rice and soy. Also, do not feed your Congo Tetra fishmeal as it has no nutritional value. Not to mention it will greatly increase your fish’s waste production, resulting in a toxic environment for them.

Behavior and compatibility with tankmates

Congo Tetras are peaceful and lovable. They almost never show any signs of aggression, whether towards fish of the same or different species.

However, they may not bond well with aggressive fish species. Whenever they feel threatened, they look for hiding spots in the tank. It is best to keep them away from hostile fish species such as Flowerhorn Cichlid, Tiger Barb, Bucktooth Tetra, Afer Knife, Wolf Cichlid and Jaguar Cichlid.

On the other hand, here are some good tankmates for your congo tetra:

Corydoras

rainbow fish

Rummy Nose Tetra

Mollies

dwarf cichlids

swordtail fish

Ember Tetra

elephantnose fish

neon tetra

barb

Breeding Congo Tetra

Breeding congo tetras is fairly easy. To start the breeding process you will need a 20 gallon tank with some peat moss at the bottom of the tank for protection as congo tetras tend to eat their eggs.

Typically you will need to add a 1 inch layer of peat moss at the bottom of the tank. Just make sure you cook the moss before introducing it. You can also add breeding plants and mops to make the process easier.

Before introducing a mated pair of Congo Tetras, wait a few days for the moss to spread in the water. Once you have introduced the male and female tetras to the new tank, adjust the temperature to around 22-25°C and dim the lights.

The next day you should find that the female has approached the moss. Then the male follows the female and starts spawning. The female lays about 500 eggs in the moss.

Once the adults have spawned, bring them back to the main pickup and wait for the eggs to hatch. It should take 6 to 8 days for the fry to appear. You can feed the brood infusoria for about a week until they are large enough to consume baby brine shrimp. Later you can introduce powdered fish food.

Are Congo Tetras Right for Your Tank?

As you can see, the Congo Tetra is a low maintenance species. You don’t have to spend a large part of your day caring for your Congo Tetra. All you have to do is feed them as needed, do a partial water change every few weeks, and check water parameters regularly to make sure they are stable.

Congo Tetras are also peaceful, meaning you don’t have to worry about them causing problems for other fish communities in your aquarium. The only part that might require some effort is breeding, as it requires you to set up a whole new tank. Having said that, the process itself is actually super smooth.

Congo Tetras are very beautiful and fun to watch thanks to their distinctive rainbow color and long caudal fin. They will definitely make a great addition to your aquarium.

Dull colors can mean stress or illness. Here’s how you can help prevent it.

If you have an aquarium at home, you’ve probably filled it with neon tetras.

Neon tetras are some of the most well-known fish out there, and due to their popularity and beautiful coloring, they can be found in almost any pet store that sells fish.

Neons add a bold pop of color to your aquarium, but sometimes those vibrant blues, greens, and reds start to dull. Of course, we fish lovers find that a bit questionable. If your neon tetra’s colors are fading, you may want to investigate why.

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Schools about solo swimming

Neon tetras like to be part of a group. These fish would rather stay in schools than swim alone – being alone will stress them out. “Like other midwater fish, the neon tetra should be kept in a school of 6 or more individuals,” advise Carlo Devito and Gregory Skomal in The Everything Tropical Fish Book.

When the solo neon becomes stressed, its colors will begin to fade, so bring home enough neon tetras to form a pod. This will help your fish transition to their new home and your aquarium will look even more beautiful. It’s a win-win situation.

Better living through chemistry

Although neon tetras are hardy fish – they can live up to 10 years – transferring them to a new tank can be difficult. You must have the right water chemistry for your neon tetras to thrive. Your tank pH should be between 6.0 and 6.5 and your aquarium should be properly circulated before adding fish.

Cycling your aquarium serves to remove harmful chemicals. Although fish excrete ammonia, ammonia is actually toxic to fish. So cycling in an aquarium helps convert toxic ammonia and nitrites into non-toxic nitrates.

Need more breakdown? Fish produce ammonia in their waste, and your filter has a type of bacteria in it that converts that ammonia into nitrites, which are even more toxic to fish. Then another bacterium in the filter takes those harmful nitrites and converts them into non-toxic nitrates. But your neon tetras will already have this process in place before you put them in the water.

Purchase a test kit to test your aquarium water weekly. Your nitrites and ammonia should both be tested at 0 ppm before adding tetras to the aquarium. Otherwise, you’ll quickly see your neons’ colors dull – and they might even die.

dim the light

Native to South America, the neon tetra is used to a shady environment with lots of plants for cover. A brightly lit tank with very few plants can stress your neon tetras—another reason why their colors fade.

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A good tank will have soft lighting and plenty of plants for your tetras to retreat to. “This species doesn’t do well under bright lights, so be sure to dim the atmosphere as much as possible,” advise Maddy and Mic Hargrove in Freshwater Aquariums for Dummies.

Neon tetras may also show slight color fading if they spend a lot of time in the dark or at night. This color fading is normal and usually nothing to worry about.

illness

Unfortunately, neon tetras get sick, and there is even a “neon tetra disease” for which there is no cure.

“Pleistophora Hyphessobryconis (sometimes spelled Plistophora), which is responsible for the well-known ‘neon tetra disease’, is perhaps the best-known sporozoal disease in tropical fish, particularly neon tetras…. The disease is said to spread when infected fish or detritus containing the spores are consumed,” says Brian Andrews in Ornamental Fish Farming: Fish Diseases and Health Management.

Your fish have a better chance of getting sick if you keep your tank clean and tidy. With neon tetra disease, you won’t know your fish are infected until they become symptomatic – by which time the rest of your tank could be infected.

It’s pretty mesmerizing to watch these neon tetras scurry around while they eat:

If your neon tetras contract neon tetra disease, quarantine the affected fish immediately to protect the others. Also contact the place where you bought your fish to let the owners know as well if your fish became infected there.

Neon tetra colors can become dull for many reasons and it can be an amazing thing to witness. It certainly doesn’t mean your fish is on its deathbed, but finding the cause is important so you can get those colors really bright again.

So keep a clean and well-clocked tank, sit back and admire your beautiful neons.