Neon Tetras are small, iridescent schooling fish. They have horizontal red and blue strips that look amazing under the right lighting. They are a peaceful fish from the Amazon.
Tank Size
10 gallon is a bare minimum but, I should really be suggesting a 20. You need to keep 6 or more at a time so they need plenty of space for schooling. It is also much easier to maintain them in a larger tank.
Temperature
70-77 is a good range for them. Avoid going warmer as this can shorten thier life spans. Like most fish they prefer consistant temperature ranges so invest in a good water heater.
Water Parameters
A pH of 6.0-7.0 is good range for Neon Tetras. They thrive in soft water with slight acidity. Aim for <10 dGH hardness if possible. While most can tolerate a neutral pH avoid extremes. They like clean water so be sure to have good filtration and keep nitrates <20 ppm.
Diet
Neon Tetras are omnivorous. In they wild they eat tiny crusatceans and insects. Feed them high quality tropical flakes or micro pellets. Small frequent feedings will help ensure they all get the nutrients they need.
Tankmates
Neon Tetras are a peaceful community fish. They do well with other small gentle species. Rasboras, gouramis, corydoras, shrimp, and even other tetras make great mates.
Lifespan
Neon Tetras have varried lifespan ranges. If in suboptimal conditions expect shorter 2-3 year life spans. While better conditions can keep them swimming for up to 10. Must maintain a balanced diet, clean water, and stable parameters to maximize their lifespan.
Breeding
Neon Tetras are egg scatterers. THey can be bred at home but have specific conditions to be met. Must have 1-2 dGH and a pH of 6.0 as well as dim lighting. It can be a complex process for beginners. Parents will eat the eggs so they must be removed. Fry need to be fed microscopic food. I would not recommend trying to breed them as a beginner.
Common Diseases/Treatment
Neon Tetra Disease (NTD) is a well know illness named after them. When they are sick they will show a loss of color, restless swimming, and muscle degneration. Unfortunately it is uncurable and affected fish shoudl be removed. Always quarintine new fish as tetras are farm bred which can run the risk of disease.
Difficulty
They are a generally easy fish for begninners. They can be overly sensitve to poor water but that can easily be managed with frequent water changes, a good quality filter, and a healthy diet.
Neon Tetras are a fun beginner fish for anyone. They can make an empty tank seem to be more. Any fish that likes to school and swim back and forth like they do makes for very visually appealing tank. They are easy to care for which makes them a great add for a bigginer community tank.