Neon Tetra

The Neon Tetra is one of the most popular freshwater aquarium fish in the world, known for its brilliant electric blue stripe and vibrant red lower body. Small, peaceful, and eye-catching, this schooling fish adds stunning color and constant movement to any community tank.

Care Instructions

Temperament: Peaceful
Difficulty Level: Easy (Best in established tanks)
Adult Size: 1–1.5 inches
Lifespan: 5–8 years
Tank Size: 10–20 gallons minimum
Temperature: 72–78°F
pH: 6.0–7.0
Water Hardness: Soft to moderately soft

✔ Keep in schools of 6 or more (10+ looks even better!)
✔ Best in planted aquariums with open swimming space
✔ Prefer stable, well-cycled tanks
✔ Moderate filtration with gentle flow

Neon Tetras feel safest in groups and display their brightest colors when kept in proper schools.

 Food

Neon Tetras are omnivores and thrive on a varied diet:

• High-quality micro flakes or nano pellets

• Frozen or live brine shrimp

• Bloodworms

• Daphnia

• Occasional finely crushed freeze-dried foods

Feed small portions 1–2 times daily.

Fun Facts

• Their bright blue stripe reflects light and appears to “glow.”
• In the wild, they live in blackwater Amazon streams.
• They school tightly when feeling secure or excited.
• Their colors may fade temporarily at night — totally normal!