Neon Tetra

The neon tetra is a small freshwater characin (family Characidae) from the blackwater streams of the upper Amazon basin in South America. It is famous for the brilliant iridescent blue-green stripe running along its body, set above a red band that covers the rear half, colors that shimmer under soft lighting. It is a peaceful, gregarious shoaling fish that must be kept in groups of at least six, and ideally many more, to feel secure and show its best behaviour. In too small a group it becomes stressed and skittish. A densely planted aquarium with soft, slightly acidic water and subdued lighting best displays its colors. An omnivore, it accepts small flakes, micro-pellets, and frozen foods such as daphnia and brine shrimp. It makes an excellent community fish alongside other small, peaceful species.