GREEN NEON TETRA

Green Neon Tetras (Paracheirodon simulans) are small, vibrant freshwater fish known for their striking green and blue coloration. They are a popular choice for aquarium enthusiasts due to their peaceful nature and bright appearance. Here’s a comprehensive care guide for Green Neon Tetras:

Tank Size and Setup

• Tank Size: A minimum of 10 gallons is recommended. They are small fish, but they thrive in groups and need adequate space to swim.
• Aquascape: Provide a well-planted tank with plenty of hiding spots and open swimming areas. Use live plants like Java moss, Anubias, and Cryptocoryne. Driftwood and rocks can also be included to create a natural environment.
• Substrate: A soft substrate such as fine gravel or sand works well. They are not bottom dwellers but may occasionally forage on the substrate.
• Lighting: Moderate lighting is sufficient. Ensure that lighting supports plant growth and highlights the fish’s colors without promoting excessive algae growth.

Water Parameters

• Temperature: Green Neon Tetras prefer water temperatures between 72-78°F (22-26°C). Use a reliable heater to maintain a stable temperature.
• pH: They thrive in slightly acidic to neutral water, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5.
• Hardness: They prefer soft to moderately hard water, with a general hardness (GH) of 4-8 dGH.
• Water Quality: Maintain good water quality with regular water changes (20-30% weekly). Ensure ammonia and nitrite levels are at 0 ppm and keep nitrates below 20 ppm. Use a high-quality water conditioner to treat tap water before adding it to the tank.

Filtration and Water Flow

• Filtration: Use a filtration system that provides both mechanical and biological filtration. A sponge filter or a gentle canister filter works well for their tank size and helps maintain clean water.
• Water Flow: Moderate to gentle water flow is ideal. Ensure the filter output does not create strong currents, as Green Neon Tetras prefer slower-moving water.

Feeding

• Diet: Green Neon Tetras are omnivorous and will accept a variety of foods. Offer high-quality flake or pellet food as their staple diet. Supplement with live or frozen foods like daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms.
• Variety: Providing a varied diet ensures they receive all necessary nutrients and helps maintain their vibrant coloration.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed them once or twice a day. Offer only as much food as they can consume within a few minutes to avoid overfeeding and maintain water quality.