Neon Tetra Care Sheet
Paracheirodon innesi
One of the most popular freshwater fish in the hobby. Neon tetras are peaceful schooling fish known for their iridescent blue and red stripe. Perfect for beginners and community tanks.
70–81°F
6–7
10 gallons
5–8 years
1.2 inches (3 cm)
6+ (school of 10–12 recommended)
Moderate difficulty. Egg scatterers — need soft, acidic water (pH 5.0-6.0) and dim lighting. Remove adults after spawning to prevent egg predation.
Diet & Feeding
Omnivore — accepts high-quality flake food, micro pellets, frozen/freeze-dried brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. Feed small amounts 1-2 times daily.
Natural Habitat
Native to blackwater streams in the Amazon basin (Peru, Colombia, Brazil). Prefers dim lighting, dark substrate, and dense vegetation.
Care Tips
Keep in schools of 6 or more — they feel safest in groups and display better color
Provide plenty of plants and hiding spots to mimic their natural habitat
Sensitive to water parameter swings — acclimate slowly and keep parameters stable
Prone to neon tetra disease (Pleistophora) — quarantine new additions
Lower lighting brings out their best colors
Tank-Mate Compatibility
Compatible Species (18)
Use Caution (4)
Incompatible (4)
African Cichlid
African cichlids will eat small tetras. Only keep with similar-sized cichlids.
American Cichlid
Most American cichlids will eat small tetras.
Knifefish
Knifefish will eat any fish small enough to fit in their mouth.
Goldfish
Goldfish are coldwater, tetras are tropical — incompatible temperatures.