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Neon Tetra (Paracheirodon Innesi)

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Scientific Name: Paracheirodon Innesi
Common Names: Neon Tetra
Temperament: Peaceful
Care Level: Easy
Life Span: 5 to 10 years

Neon Tetra (Paracheirodon Innesi) in focus

Species Overview and Background:

  • The Neon Tetra was first discovered in 1934 in the upper Amazon region in South America. It is native to countries such as Brazil, Colombia, and Peru. Its natural distribution on the map includes the Amazon River and its tributaries.
  • In their natural habitat, Neon Tetras are found in blackwater streams and creeks. They often inhabit densely vegetated areas with slow-moving or stagnant water. They are known to live together in large schools, swimming among the vegetation.
  • Neon Tetras are omnivorous and primarily feed on small invertebrates, such as insects and worms, as well as plant matter in nature.
  • Their natural behaviour is peaceful, and they prefer to live in large groups. They are known for their vibrant colours and active swimming patterns.
  • Neon Tetras were introduced to the aquarium hobby in the 1930s. Their popularity quickly grew due to their striking colours and peaceful nature. They became famous for their neon blue and red lateral stripes, which make them highly sought after by hobbyists.
  • Neon Tetras are relatively common in the aquarium hobby and are widely available in pet stores and from breeders.
  • The ideal minimum group size for Neon Tetras is 10 individuals. A tank size of at least 40 litres (10 gallons) is recommended to accommodate a school of Neon Tetras.
  • Neon Tetras are not a cross of other species. The first ones appeared in the hobby as wild-caught specimens, and later breeding programs were developed by breeders to meet the demand.

General Water Parameters:

  • pH Range: 6.0 to 7.5
  • Temperature Range: 22 to 26 degrees Celsius (72 to 79 degrees Fahrenheit)
  • GH Range: 1 to 8 dGH
  • KH Range: 1 to 4 dKH
  • TDS Range: 50 to 150 ppm

Colour & Appearance:

  • Neon Tetras are small fish, reaching an average size of about 3 centimetres (1.2 inches) in length.
  • They have a slender body shape and are characterized by their vibrant blue and red lateral stripes that run from the nose to the base of the tail.
  • The back of the Neon Tetra is a shimmering silver colour, while the belly is a pale silver-white shade.
  • There are no significant variations in coloration among Neon Tetras. However, variations in the intensity of the blue and red stripes may occur.

Care and Requirements:

  • Neon Tetras are relatively easy to care for. They are hardy fish that can adapt to a wide range of water conditions.
  • They are omnivorous and will readily accept a variety of foods, including high-quality flake food, small pellets, frozen or live brine shrimp, daphnia, and micro-pellets.
  • Neon Tetras are generally hardy, but they are sensitive to sudden water parameter changes. It's important to maintain stable water conditions and perform regular water changes to keep them healthy.
  • They are active during the day and spend most of their time swimming in the mid to upper levels of the aquarium.
  • While Neon Tetras don't necessarily hide, they do appreciate having plants and other decorations in the aquarium to provide them with security and shaded areas.

Diet:

Neon Tetras are omnivores and have a diverse diet in the wild, primarily consisting of small invertebrates and plant matter. In captivity, Neon Tetras are not picky eaters and will readily accept a variety of foods. A balanced diet for Neon Tetras should include a combination of high-quality flake or pellet food, frozen or live foods, and occasional vegetable matter. Neon Tetras are typically active feeders and will eagerly swim to the surface or mid-water level to consume food. They have small mouths, so it's important to provide them with appropriately sized food. Offer small portions of food multiple times a day to ensure they receive an adequate amount of nutrition.

Commercially available foods suitable for Neon Tetras include:

  • Flake or Pellet Food: Look for high-quality flake or pellet food specifically formulated for tropical fish. Brands such as Hikari Micro Pellets, TetraMin Tropical Flakes, and Omega One Freshwater Flakes are suitable options.
  • Frozen or Live Foods: Neon Tetras can be fed frozen or live foods to provide them with additional nutrients. Brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms are excellent choices. Frozen foods from reputable brands like Hikari, San Francisco Bay Brand, and Omega One are readily available.
  • Vegetable Matter: Neon Tetras can also benefit from occasional vegetable matter in their diet. You can offer them blanched spinach, cucumber slices, or high-quality vegetable-based flakes or pellets.

Ideal Tank Setup:

To create an ideal tank setup for Neon Tetras, consider the following factors:

  • Tank Size: A minimum tank size of 40 litres (10 gallons) is suitable for a school of Neon Tetras. However, larger tanks are always better as they provide more swimming space and stability.
  • Substrate: Neon Tetras are not particularly picky about substrate type. They can thrive in tanks with sand or gravel. Fine-grained substrates are preferable to prevent injury to their delicate fins.
  • Plants: Neon Tetras prefer a well-planted aquarium with plenty of hiding places. Live plants such as Java Moss, Java Fern, Amazon Sword, and Hornwort provide both shelter and a natural environment. These plants also help maintain good water quality by absorbing excess nutrients.
  • Decorations: Adding driftwood, rocks, and caves to the tank will further enhance the natural feel and provide additional hiding spots for the Neon Tetras.
  • Water Flow: Neon Tetras do not require high water flow. A gentle to moderate water flow is sufficient, simulating their natural habitat.
  • Lighting: Provide moderate lighting in the aquarium. Neon Tetras appreciate a slightly dimmed environment, so floating plants or using a dimmer on the tank lights can create a more suitable atmosphere.
  • Water Parameters: Maintain stable water parameters within the recommended ranges mentioned earlier. Regularly test the water quality and perform water changes to keep the conditions optimal for the fish.
  • Filtration: A good filtration system is essential to maintain clean and healthy water conditions. A hang-on-back (HOB) or sponge filter can be used, ensuring it provides gentle water flow and doesn't create strong currents.

Group of Neon Tetra (Paracheirodon Innesi) inside a planted aquarium

Compatibility and Tankmates:

Neon Tetras are peaceful and social fish that thrive in the company of their own species and other peaceful community fish. Suitable tankmates for Neon Tetras include:

  • Other Tetra species: Ember Tetras, Cardinal Tetras, and Rummy Nose Tetras are great choices to create a vibrant community of tetras.
  • Small peaceful fish: Corydoras catfish, Dwarf Gouramis, Rasboras, and small peaceful species of livebearers like Endlers or Guppies can coexist peacefully with Neon Tetras.
  • Shrimp and Snails: Adding small species of shrimp like Cherry Shrimp or Snails like Nerite snails can be beneficial as they help with cleaning the tank and provide additional interest.

When introducing tankmates, ensure that they have similar water parameter requirements and are not aggressive or prone to fin-nipping. Avoid keeping Neon Tetras with large, aggressive fish or species known to prey on smaller fish.

Sexing:

Distinguishing between male and female Neon Tetras can be challenging. However, there are subtle differences that can help with sexing:

  • Size and Body Shape: Females are generally slightly larger and plumper than males, especially when they are carrying eggs.
  • Coloration: In mature females, the red stripe on the belly may appear wider and fuller compared to males. Males, on the other hand, tend to have a straighter and narrower stripe.
  • Bent Spine: Some female Neon Tetras develop a slightly bent spine as they mature, especially when they are full of eggs. This can be an additional clue for sexing.

It's important to note that sexing Neon Tetras accurately can be challenging, especially in young or non-breeding individuals. Therefore, it's often more practical to maintain a group of Neon Tetras rather than trying to specifically pair males and females.

Breeding:

Breeding Neon Tetras is possible in a well-maintained aquarium. To encourage successful breeding, consider the following conditions:

  • Separate Breeding Tank: Set up a separate breeding tank with a capacity of at least 20 litres (5 gallons). This tank should be equipped with a sponge filter or a gentle filtration system to prevent the eggs from being sucked into the filter.
  • Ideal Water Parameters: Maintain stable and optimal water conditions. The temperature should be around 26 to 28 degrees Celsius (79 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit). Soft, slightly acidic water is preferred, with a pH range of 6.0 to 6.5.
  • Conditioning: Prior to breeding, provide a well-balanced diet with high-quality live and frozen foods to condition the fish. This helps enhance their reproductive readiness.
  • Spawning Mop or Plants: Provide fine-leaved plants or a spawning mop as a substrate for the eggs. Neon Tetras are egg scatterers and will lay their adhesive eggs among the plants or mop.
  • Dim Lighting: Reduce the lighting in the breeding tank or use a dimmer to create a subdued environment. This can stimulate the spawning behaviour of Neon Tetras.
  • Breeding Pair or Group: If you aim to breed Neon Tetras, it's best to maintain a group of 6 to 10 individuals and allow them to pair off naturally. Alternatively, you can set up a separate breeding tank and introduce a known male and female pair.
  • Egg Collection: After spawning, remove the adults from the breeding tank to prevent them from consuming the eggs. The eggs will hatch in approximately 24 to 36 hours, depending on the water temperature.
  • Raising Fry: Once the eggs hatch, the fry will initially feed on their yolk sacs. After a few days, you can start feeding them infusoria or commercially available liquid fry food. As they grow, gradually introduce powdered or crushed flake food.

It's important to note that raising Neon Tetra fry requires attentive care and a separate rearing setup. Providing suitable food, maintaining excellent water quality, and regular monitoring are crucial for their survival.

Before purchasing Neon Tetras or introducing them to a new aquarium, consider the following additional points:

  • Tank Cycling: Ensure that your aquarium is properly cycled before adding any fish. Cycling establishes beneficial bacteria that help maintain water quality.

Acclimation: When introducing Neon Tetras to a new aquarium, it's important to acclimate them slowly to prevent shock. Float the bag containing the fish in the aquarium to equalize the temperature, and gradually add small amounts of aquarium water to the bag over a period of time. Finally, carefully net the fish and release them into the tank.

  • Water Quality: Regularly test the water parameters, including temperature, pH, ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels. Perform routine water changes to maintain excellent water quality and remove any accumulated toxins or waste.
  • Disease Prevention: Neon Tetras are generally hardy, but they can be susceptible to diseases if kept in poor water conditions or exposed to stress. Ensure that the tank is clean, provide a balanced diet, and avoid introducing sick or stressed fish to the aquarium.
  • Avoid Jumping: Neon Tetras are known to be skilled jumpers. To prevent them from escaping the tank, make sure the tank is properly covered to prevent any accidental leaps.
  • Tank Maintenance: Regularly clean the aquarium, including removing debris, maintaining equipment, and trimming plants if necessary. This helps to create a healthy and visually appealing environment for your Neon Tetras.
  • Enjoying Their Colours: Neon Tetras exhibit their vibrant colours best when kept in a well-maintained tank with suitable lighting. Adequate nutrition and good water quality contribute to the intensity and vibrancy of their colours.

In conclusion, Neon Tetras are popular and captivating freshwater fish known for their striking colours and peaceful nature. They are relatively easy to care for and can be an excellent addition to a community aquarium. By providing them with a suitable tank setup, a balanced diet, and optimal water conditions, you can ensure the health and well-being of these beautiful fish. With proper care, Neon Tetras can provide years of enjoyment for fish keepers and serve as a stunning centrepiece in any freshwater aquarium.