Back to More Fish Species

Scientific Name: Family Characidae

Type: Freshwater

Size: Varies by species, from 1½-3" (4-8cm)

Tank Size Needed (Minimum): 30 gallons (114L)

Water pH: Varies by species. Generally 6.0 to 7.0

Water Hardness: Varies by species. Generally soft (2-8 dH), some fairly hard (12-20 dH)

Temperature: Varies by species. Generally 72-80°F (22-27°C)

Origin: South America, Africa

Social: Will not thrive as a single specimen. Must have a school of five or more. Will successfully live with other Tetra species, plus Catfish, Danios, Discus, Dwarf Gouramis, Guppies, Mollies, Plecostomus, Platies, Rainbows, and Swordtails.

Life span: 4-7 years

Diet: Omnivores. Prefer live or frozen food (bloodworms, brine shrimp, tubifex worms), supplemented with flake food. May also nibble on live aquarium plants.

Difficulty Rating: Beginner

Comments: Tetras, a group of well over a hundred species, are native to streams and rivers in both South America and Africa. They are generally peaceful schooling fish that make a colorful addition to a freshwater aquarium. Schools of different tetra species can get along very well and create an active community that is interesting to observe.  

Tetras are fairly small fish, but because they prefer living in schools they do need a good-sized aquarium. Hiding places are appreciated, so be sure to include plants of varying heights along with driftwood, rocks or other furnishings. These fish swim at all levels of the aquarium and most species prefer medium lighting.

Though tetras can be found in colors from white to black and everything in between, the most common species found in pet stores are the blue and red Cardinal and Neon tetras.

Tetras will rarely give other fish a hard time, with the exception of long-finned fish they may nip at. For the most part, tetras are on the receiving end of harassment, particularly when housed with larger fish that may eat them.