Fin's Fish Guide
The Neon tetra (Paracheirodon innesi) is a freshwater fish of the family Characidae that grows up to 2 cm.
Description
The neon tetra is a small, colourful characin from fresh water of the western Amazon basin in South America. The species grows to about 2 cm and has a body with a brilliant blue-green light stripe along the upper half and a red stripe on the rear lower half. It schools in large numbers in clear and blackwater streams and feeds on small zooplankton and insect larvae. It is one of the best-known and most popular aquarium fishes. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Neon tetra?
The Neon tetra has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Brilliant blue-green light stripe and a red rear stripe; classic aquarium fish
Where does the Neon tetra live?
The Neon tetra lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Western Amazon basin
How big does the Neon tetra get?
The Neon tetra grows to a maximum of about 2 cm.
Is the Neon tetra dangerous to humans?
No, the Neon tetra is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Neon tetra edible?
The Neon tetra is not usually eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Neon tetra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Neon tetra is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Paracheirodon
More from the family Characidae
Want the complete picture on the Neon tetra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Neon tetra is one of 12,519 species in the app.