10 Reasons Why You Should Have A Neon Tetra

The neon tetra is a type of freshwater fish that belongs to the Characiformes order and the Characin family. The neon tetra may be found in the western and northern Amazon basins in southern Colombia, eastern Peru, and western Brazil.

The name pops up first in mind among the fish parents worldwide who consider them as the perfect pet.

Because Neon Tetras are small in size, easy to take care of, are hardy, peaceful, active, and have longevity plus beautiful vibrant colors.

Aquarists love these fish so much that about 2 million are sold each month in the United States, with the great majority being produced in captivity.

Here we share top 10 reasons why you should have a neon tetra

1. The Neon Tetra is a Hardy Fish

Neon tetras are a hardy species of fish. They can tolerate a wide range of water conditions, including temperature and pH fluctuations, although adaptation takes time. However, in order for them to have a long life, you must keep a consistent temperature, water chemistry, and low light.

These tetras only respond negatively when the water changes fast, making the temperature within the tank to vary.

Water hardness of less than 20 dGH is preferred for neon tetras. Anything above that level might put their health in risk. They also grow in soft water. They can, however, adjust to somewhat harsh water. They are hardy as a result of this trait.

2. Neon Tetras are Active Fishes

The most of tetras are active schooling fish that thrive in a calm community aquarium. Keeping six or more fish of the same species in the aquarium is excellent. Neon tetras are an active fish and so have high energy requirements. These fish don’t usually attack other fish in the tank, nor do they go for freshwater shrimp, snails, or other animals.

3. Neon Tetras Need Low Maintenance

Neon tetras are usually laid-back, and their small size means they have very little effect on water quality. Neon Tetras may grow up to one and a half inches long, starting at about a centimetre. They prefer to learn in groups.

Neon Tetras are small, due to which there is no necessity for a large tank. A 5-gallon aquarium will hold a small school of tetras very well. Being a tropical fish Neon Tetras needs temperature maintenance of 60-70°F. Artificial subdued lights and plantation is required for photosynthesis, nitrogen cycle, and maintaining oxygen levels.

4. Easy to Keep other Tetras together with Neon Tetras

You can easily keep other breeds of Tetras along with Neon Tetras. However, like all other Tetras, Neon Tetras also prefer to school with their species, so you can expect to see a school consisting of different types of tetras along.

5. Neon Tetras have Beautiful Appearance

The head and back of neon tetras are light blue. They have a brilliant blue iridescent stripe that extends from their nose to their adipose fin on both sides of their bodies.

Neons can reach a length of 2.5 inches. However, a neon tetra’s typical size is approximately 1.5 inches, with females growing significantly smaller than males.

6. Neon Tetras Do Not Require Large Space

Neons don’t grow very large, a single fish only need a gallon or two of Space. Neon tetras require an aquarium with a minimum capacity of 10 gallons of fresh water. This will give you enough space to hide and swim. Estimate 10 gallons of water for every 6 fish you intend to maintain.

7. Neon Tetras Are Inexpensive

The majority of Neon Tetras are also grown in captivity. Because they do not have to be acquired from the wild, they are more widely available.

Neon Tetras are very well among both novice and experienced fish keepers because to their appealing low price. Neon Tetras, in particular, range in price from $1.99 to $2.

8. Neon Tetras live long life

Neon tetras thrive in schools of fish and get along well with a wide variety of fish. The lifespan of a neon tetra is around 10 years. When maintained in an aquarium, though, they may live for two to three years.

9. They are calm and peaceful

Neon Tetras are one of the most peaceful and calm fish. As a result, any non-aggressive fish would be compatible and safe to maintain in the same tank with them. In an overcrowded and tiny aquarium, the only time Neon Tetras may be aggressive is at feeding time.

10. They can last without food for weeks

Changes in water conditions and insecurity are the leading causes of neon tetra deaths. If you have Neon Tetra fry, keep in mind that they will not live through day 3 without feeding. However, if you have adult Neon Tetra, they will be healthy and happy for a few weeks as long because there are plenty of living plants in your fish tank.