The-Wolf
Ex-LFS manager/ keeper of over 30 danio species
Common Name/s: Green Neon Tetra, False Neon Tetra
Scientific name: Paracheirodon simulans
Family: Characidae
Origin: South America: Upper Negro and Orinoco River basins
Maximum Size: 2cm
Care: larger the group the better for this small fish. A school of 10 or more will give you their best activeness. Prefers soft, acidic water with a pH of 5.5 to 6. They can be acclimated to a wide range of pH although they do not do so well in the higher bands. Temp range of 23 to 27°C (73.4 to 80.6°F) they do best at 26°C (78.8°F).
Feeding: Crushed flakes and live/frozen foods. Avoid bloodworm as they are often too big for them. Daphnia seems to be a favourite of my green neon tetras.
Sexing and Breeding: Very hard to tell; however females appear, slightly, plumper than males. No reported instances of breeding in the aquarium.
Comments: As with most characins they are susceptible to Neon tetra disease. You should avoid keeping them with any fish that can fit them into their mouths. Peat filtration is a must to have to reach their full potential.
What tank size would be the minimum for a group of these? Would they be suitable tankmates for a laid-back betta?
