What to Feed Tetras

Tetras, a species of small fish common to South and Central America, are popular aquarium fish. Tetras are hardy, easy to keep and are a colorful fish, explaining their popularity. Most tetras kept in tanks come from South America; the African varieties are more noise and light sensitive. Tetras are mid-tank dwelling fish and come to the surface to feed.

  1. Flakes and Pellets

    • In captivity, tetras can easily survive on a diet of flakes and/or pellets. Make sure the pellets aren't too large for the tetras' mouths and be careful not to over-feed them. In general, it is best to supply tetras with what they can eat over two minutes and feed them two to three times a day

    Live Food

    • Flakes and pellets are suitable for a tetra diet, however, for a truly well-rounded diet, it's a good idea to include live food. This can include small bugs or worms, but generally freeze-dried food available from a fish store is more convenient. Daphnia and bloodworm are two of the most common foods in this form.

    Plants

    • Tetras are omnivores, which means they eat a mixture of live food and plant material. For a natural addition to a healthy tetra diet, it's important to include plant material. Putting plant material in their tank provides for a healthy, oxygenated tank and gives tetras shelter and somewhere to hide.

    Over-Feeding

    • It's important not to over-feed tetras as they are scavengers and will generally eat whatever is put into their tank. This can result in overeating which can lead to health problems. Overfeeding can also lead to uneaten material sinking to the bottom of the tank to rot and pollute the water. Live food is good; if not eaten immediately, live food can survive in the tank for a few days without polluting the water.