How to Care for Neon Tetras

Tropical fish dealers first introduced neon tetras to the United States after World War II. They soon became a popular species with hobbyists due to their bright colors and hardiness. Their iridescent blue stripe and bright red streak contrast with their translucent bodies and transparent fins. They are native to the Amazon basin and do best in a tank environment that is similar to that habitat.

Things You'll Need

  • Tank
  • Plants
  • Rocks
  • Gravel
  • Water conditioner
  • Flake food
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Purchase a tank that is at least 20 inches long.

    • 2

      Fill the tank with plenty of plants and rocks that the fish can use as cover.

    • 3

      Line the bottom of the tank with dark gravel and keep the tank dimly lit.

    • 4

      Fill the tank with neutral or slightly acidic water. The ideal pH is 7, but most fish can tolerate levels from 5.5 to 7.5. The water should also be as soft as possible. Tetras do not survive well in water with a high mineral content.

    • 5

      Treat tap water with a conditioner to remove any traces of chlorine, fluorine or heavy metals.

    • 6

      Place a tank heater into the aquarium and heat the water until it reaches 68 to 78 degrees Fahrenheit.

    • 7

      Purchase at least four fish and preferably 10 to 15. Tetras are schooling fish that do not survive well without other members of their own species.

    • 8

      Avoid purchasing large, aggressive or long-finned fish as aquarium mates for your tetras. Large fish, even peaceful ones, may eat the small tetras. Tetras, in turn, tend to nibble on the fins of other fish, which may annoy or harm long-finned species.

    • 9

      Feed them flake food for omnivores.

    • 10

      Clean the tank regularly to ensure the health of your fish.