Neon Tetra

Introduction

The Neon Tetra (Paracheirodon innesi) is a small, brightly colored freshwater fish that is native to South American rivers. It is named for the iridescent blue horizontal stripe that runs along its body, and the red stripe that runs from the middle of the body to the base of the tail. These vibrant colors make the Neon Tetra a popular choice for aquarium enthusiasts.

Taxonomy and Naming

The Neon Tetra belongs to the family Characidae and the genus Paracheirodon. The species name innesi is in honor of William T. Innes, a pioneer in the field of aquarium fish keeping and the author of the book "Exotic Aquarium Fishes". The common name "Neon Tetra" is derived from the fish's bright neon-like colors.

Description and Appearance

Neon Tetras are small fish, typically growing to a length of 1.5 inches (3.8 cm). The most striking feature of the Neon Tetra is its vibrant coloration. The fish has a torpedo-shaped body with a blue-green back and a silver-white abdomen. A bright blue horizontal stripe extends from the eye to the adipose fin, and a red stripe runs from the middle of the body to the base of the tail. The fins are transparent, and the anal fin is slightly larger in males than in females.

Distribution and Habitat

Neon Tetras are native to the clear water and blackwater streams of South America, specifically the Amazon basin in Brazil, Colombia, and Peru. They inhabit areas with dense vegetation and a soft, sandy substrate. The water in these habitats is typically acidic with a pH of 5.0-7.0, and a temperature range of 20-26°C (68-79°F).

Behavior and Ecology

Neon Tetras are schooling fish, typically forming groups of six or more. They are most active during the day and spend their time in the middle water layer of the aquarium. Neon Tetras are omnivores, feeding on a diet of small invertebrates, plant matter, and commercially available fish food.

Breeding

Neon Tetras are egg scatterers, with females releasing their eggs into the water to be fertilized by the males. The eggs hatch in about 24 hours, and the fry become free-swimming after five days. Breeding Neon Tetras in captivity can be challenging due to their specific water conditions and the need for a quiet, dimly lit environment.

In the Aquarium

Neon Tetras are popular in the aquarium trade due to their vibrant colors and peaceful nature. They are best kept in schools of six or more in a well-planted tank with soft, slightly acidic water. Neon Tetras are generally hardy fish, but they can be susceptible to diseases such as Neon Tetra Disease and Ichthyophthirius multifiliis.

Conservation Status

The Neon Tetra is not currently listed on the IUCN Red List and is not considered to be at risk of extinction. However, the species is heavily harvested for the aquarium trade, which could potentially impact wild populations in the future.