Neon Green Tetra

Neon Green Tetra (Paracheirodon simulans)

Appearance & Behavior

Bring a shimmering blue-green ribbon of color to your freshwater aquarium with Neon Green Tetras, also known as Green Neon Tetras. Their slender bodies feature an iridescent stripe extending toward the tail, with much less red coloration than a Cardinal Tetra. A settled group weaving among plants creates a delicate, jewel-like display. These tiny, peaceful fish feel more secure with their own kind and can become shy around larger or boisterous tankmates.

Quick Care Guide

• Care Level: Moderate; best in a mature, established aquarium

• Temperament: Peaceful and sometimes shy

• Adult Size: Approximately 0.75–1 inch

• Minimum Aquarium Size: 10 gallons; 20 gallons recommended for a larger school and community stocking

• Temperature: 76–82°F

• pH: 5.0–6.5

• Water Hardness: Very soft to soft water, generally below 8 dGH

• Diet: Omnivore

• Swimming Area: Middle to lower

• Recommended Quantity: At least 6; preferably 10 or more when aquarium space and stocking allow

Aquarium Setup & Compatibility

Provide dense planted edges, shaded retreats, and open swimming space. Neon Green Tetras do best in a mature, fully cycled aquarium with stable, soft, acidic water and gentle circulation. Floating cover, driftwood, and a darker background help them feel secure and highlight their iridescent stripe. Protect filter intakes, use a secure lid, and avoid abrupt changes in temperature or water chemistry. Do not chase a lower pH with sudden chemical adjustments.

Good companions include very small, gentle tetras, suitable small rasboras, and small Corydoras species that share their warm, soft-water requirements. Adult dwarf shrimp may coexist, though tiny shrimplets can be eaten. Avoid aggressive or boisterous fish and any fish large enough to swallow them. Check water requirements carefully before adding snails or shrimp, as strongly acidic, very soft water is unsuitable for many common aquarium invertebrates.

Feeding

Feed finely crushed Hatchery Diet 1.2 mm, supplemented with suitably small Daphnia and finely chopped Bloodworms. Their mouths are especially small, so do not offer whole 1.2 mm pellets or large bloodworms. Offer small portions and ensure shy fish are not outcompeted by faster tankmates.