Neon Tetra (Paracheirodon innesi)

Neon Tetras (Paracheirodon innesi) are the iconic blue-and-red schooling fish that defined planted community aquariums for generations. A proper school flickers like living neon signs through dimly lit stems—peaceful, small, and endlessly watchable when water quality stays high. Success with neons comes from groups, softish warm water, and calm tank mates that will not outcompete or hunt them. Quick care Adult size: About 1–1.25 inches Temperament: Peaceful schooling tetra Minimum tank size: 20 gallons for 10+ fish Diet: Micro flakes, fine pellets, frozen baby brine, daphnia Water: 72–78°F; pH 5.0–7.0; soft water preferred Ideal tank mates: Other small tetras, rasboras, Corydoras, shrimp; avoid large cichlids Frequently asked questions What tank size do Neon Tetra (Paracheirodon innesi) need? A 20-gallon planted tank is ideal for a proper school; 10–15 gallons can work for smaller groups in mature setups. Softish water and gentle flow help. They’re schooling mid-water jewels, not solitary pets. How many Neon Tetra (Paracheirodon innesi) should I keep? Ten or more looks authentic and keeps them calm. Tiny groups hide and lose that neon flash. Bigger schools are always better when space allows. Are Neon Tetra (Paracheirodon innesi) good with shrimp? Yes—classic shrimp companions; adults rarely harm grown Neocaridina. Shrimplets may be eaten occasionally. Avoid large tank mates that would eat the neons. What water parameters suit Neon Tetra (Paracheirodon innesi)? Soft, acidic to near-neutral water—often pH 5.0–7.0—and about 68–78°F in a mature tank. Stability and cleanliness matter enormously. New tanks are a common neon-failure trap. What do Neon Tetra (Paracheirodon innesi) eat? Micro flakes/pellets plus baby brine, cyclops, and daphnia. Varied micro foods keep the blue-and-red stripe intense. Feed small portions they can catch. Are Neon Tetra (Paracheirodon innesi) good beginner fish? Popular but not foolproof—they need mature water and a real school. Many losses come from rushing them into immature tanks. Succeed with patience and they’re unforgettable.