Types of Tetra Fish and What They Need
Tetra fish come in several kinds, some of which have remarkably distinctive features and looks. Tiny, bright, and constantly in motion, tetras look effortless. A flash of neon here and a shimmer of silver there, and your aquarium looks alive.
But behind that calm schooling behaviour and splash of colour, each tetra species comes with its own set of needs. As a new fish keeper, you must have some questions in your mind related to Tetras:
- Are all tetras the same?
- Do they thrive in identical water conditions?
- Can you mix and match them freely just because they’re small and peaceful?
The answer is No. While tetras may look similar and share peaceful schooling behaviour, different species have distinct water parameter preferences, temperature ranges, tank size needs, and compatibility considerations. So, let’s understand the different types of tetra fish and how their needs differ from one another.
Adding Tetras to Your Fish Tank: Why are they an Excellent Choice?
Tetra fish, originally a river species, are quite adaptable in the tank environment and make excellent aquarium fish for community tanks. Although many tetrafish species have similar demands, each species has its own colour, way of life, and other characteristics.
- Vibrant Appearance: Nearly every variety of tetra fish has a vibrant appearance that contributes to the tank's overall beauty.
- Calm Nature: Tetra fish can coexist peacefully in their tank with other fish because they are communal fish.
- Simple to Maintain: Tetra fish of various varieties are comparatively resilient and can tolerate a range of water temperatures and conditions.
- Great for Beginners: Tetra fish are the best choice for those who are new to fishkeeping because they require the least amount of care.
Top Tetra Types You Can Add To Your Aquarium
Despite the fact that there are many different kinds of fish, both novices and experts like these vibrant, little fish with mild dispositions. Let us learn about some common tetra types and considerations of purchasing a tetra fish aquarium for the first time.
1. Tetra Black Neon
Because they are so resilient and essentially indestructible, this underappreciated species is one of our top picks to suggest to novice and experienced aquarists. A pair of black and white horizontal stripes runs the length of the 1.5-inch (4 cm) fish, which has a red eye.
Requirements: To make them feel secure and shielded from possible predators, you must get a school of at least six fish (of the same species). Fortunately, black neon tetras are incredibly affordable, allowing you to purchase a large number to fill a larger tank.
2. Neon Tetra
Of all the tetra fish species that are available, the neon tetra is the most well-known. In an aquarium, its vivid red and blue stripes stand out and are very easy to spot.
Requirements: The fish thrive in soft and mildly acidic water. They are best viewed as communal fish and are shoaling fish, ideally six or more.
3. Cardinal Tetra
The Cardinal Tetra resembles the Neon Tetra quite a bit; it is slightly bigger and has a stunning red colour that extends from the belly to the tail. This is one of the better tetra fish species to choose if you're looking for something with a little more eye-catching appearance.
Requirements: Similar to neons, cardinal tetras thrive in large quantities and are best kept in a tetra fish tank with lots of aquatic vegetation.
4. X-Ray Tetra
The pristella tetra has a deeper body and can reach a length of 2 inches (5 cm), whereas many other tetras have a sleeker, torpedo-shaped appearance. Its semitransparent body, which lets you see some of its internal organs (especially if you have the gold or albino variants), is what gives it the common moniker x-ray tetra.
Requirement: Relatively easy to accommodate in a fish tank because they can adapt to a wide range of pH, GH, and other water conditions. It is a fantastic choice for beginners.
5. Silver Tip Tetra
Try petting silvertip tetras if you want a highly engaging schooling fish. The females are paler yellow, while the mature males turn a bright yellow-orange. Their common name refers to the silver-white tips on the fins and tails of both sexes.
Requirements: Keep them among other quick swimmers so they won't be outcompeted for food during mealtimes due to their high level of activity.
6. Congo Tetra
This 3-inch (8 cm) African tetra is the largest on our list and thrives in aquariums that hold at least 30 gallons. The vibrant males have long, flowing finnage with a white border and a red-orange horizontal stripe with glossy blue scales underneath.
Requirement: Congo tetras can be kept with larger, calmer fish that won't bite their fins and do well in a variety of water conditions. In the past, we have even utilised them as dither fish for our timid clown loaches.
7. Glowlight Congo
With a glowing orange strip on its side, it is another peaceful species that is stunning to look at. For aquarists who like a more understated yet beautiful fish, the tetra breed is perfect.
Requirements: Glowlight tetras require neutral to mildly acidic water. Since tetras are resilient fish, it is a wonderful choice for folks who are new to keeping fish or who are building up an aquarium.
8. Serpae Tetra
Serpae Tetras are distinguished by their black dorsal fin and red hue. Because they are active and have colourful bodies, these fish are popular among aquarists. Although they are really pretty fish, serpae tetras can be a little hostile in small aquariums.
Requirement: One must make sure they are kept in sizable groupings to ease tension amongst them in order to lessen violence.
9. Rummy Nose Tetra
There are now three South American fish species that appear alike and are frequently marketed as "rummy nose tetras." Because its rose hue quickly disappears under stress, fishkeepers sometimes call it the "canary in the coal mine." Use this warning sign to examine your water conditions and other possible issues that may have emerged.
Requirements: These fish are valued for their close-knit schooling habits.
10. Amber Tetra
Because they are only 0.8 inches (2 cm) long, ember tetras are an excellent option if you have a nano tank. They appear fantastic against a background of green aquarium plants since their entire body is transparent orange.
Requirement: They prefer to swim in the centre of the aquarium so that you can cover the remaining space with surface-dwelling hatchetfish and bottom-dwelling corydoras. Due to their small size, feed them items that sink slowly, such as nano bits and pellets, frozen cyclops, and baby brine shrimp.
Summing Up
As an aquarist, you can find a wide variety of tetra fish, and it is easier to choose one for your tank once you know what type of tetra fish you want and how well you can take care of them. Keep in mind that tetras are cold-water fish, perfect for an aquascape with steady, pure water.
This way, any new fish keeper can create a bright, healthy, and attractive tetra fish aquarium, whether starting a new aquarium or even expanding the collection. What makes them thrive? Premium tetra fish food like pellets, bits, and faux worm sticks from Intan, designed to keep every school lively, active, and thriving from day one, will fuel their colours, energy, and health.
FAQS
- Can some tetra fish survive on their own, or must they all be housed in schools?
In groups, practically every tetra species feels safe. When left alone, even the brave ones become anxious. They stay lively, colourful, and less chilly in a school with at least six students.
- Do various tetra varieties need various water conditions?
Yes. Some people adjust better to neutral situations, but most people prefer soft, somewhat acidic water. Make sure that the tank size, pH, and temperature are all appropriate for the species you have selected.
- Are all tetras calm fish that live in communities?
Not all behave in the same way, but most do. When underfed or cramped, some fin-nip. Their attitude is greatly influenced by stable water, adequate room, and a healthy diet.