Common Name: Green Neon Tetra
Scientific Name: Paracheirodon simulans
Other Names: False Neon Tetra, Blue Neon Tetra
The Green Neon Tetra is a small, schooling fish known for its iridescent blue-green body and striking appearance. It closely resembles the more common Neon Tetra (Paracheirodon innesi) but has a more intense and continuous blue coloration along its body, with less red pigmentation on the lower half. Due to its smaller size and preference for soft, acidic waters, it is particularly well-suited for blackwater and planted aquariums.
Habitat and Distribution:
Native to the Rio Orinoco and Rio Negro basins in Venezuela, Colombia, and Brazil, the Green Neon Tetra thrives in blackwater tributaries, slow-moving streams, and flooded forest areas with dense vegetation. These waters are typically warm, highly acidic, and rich in tannins from decaying plant matter, giving them a dark, tea-colored appearance.
Size and Lifespan:
This species is slightly smaller than other Paracheirodon species, reaching a maximum size of 0.75-1 inch (2-2.5 cm). With proper care, they can live for 3-5 years.
Diet and Behavior:
Green Neon Tetras are omnivorous micro-predators, feeding on small invertebrates, zooplankton, and plant detritus in the wild. In captivity, they thrive on high-quality micro pellets, crushed flakes, and live or frozen foods such as baby brine shrimp, daphnia, and cyclops. As a highly social species, they should always be kept in groups of at least 10 or more to reduce stress and encourage natural schooling behavior.
Breeding and Reproduction:
Green Neon Tetras are egg scatterers and require soft, acidic water (pH 5.0-6.5) and dim lighting for successful breeding. Females scatter eggs among fine-leaved plants or moss, and the male fertilizes them externally. Since adults do not exhibit parental care and may eat the eggs, removing them after spawning increases survival rates. Eggs hatch within 24-36 hours, and fry should be fed infusoria or finely crushed foods until they are large enough to consume baby brine shrimp.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements:
A minimum of 15 gallons is recommended for a school, but larger tanks (20+ gallons) allow for better social interactions and stability. Their ideal tank setup includes a soft sand or fine gravel substrate, live plants such as Amazon swords, floating plants for shade, gentle filtration with a sponge or pre-filter to protect small fish, and dim lighting with tannin-rich water to replicate their natural blackwater habitat.
Ideal Tank Mates:
Green Neon Tetras are peaceful and do well with other small, non-aggressive fish. Suitable tank mates include Ember Tetras, Chili Rasboras, Corydoras, Otocinclus, Apistogramma species, and other small South American fish. Avoid large or aggressive species that may outcompete or prey on them.
Difficulty Level:
Intermediate. They require stable water conditions, a well-planted tank, and slightly acidic water to thrive.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 75-84°F (24-29°C)
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pH: 4.5-6.8
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General Hardness (GH): 1-8 dGH
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Carbonate Hardness (KH): 1-4 dKH
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Ammonia: 0 ppm
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Nitrite: 0 ppm
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Nitrate: <10 ppm (regular water changes required)
Additional Information:
- They display the best coloration in blackwater conditions with subdued lighting.
- Due to their small size, they should not be housed with large or aggressive fish.
- Keeping them in a large school enhances their confidence and reduces stress.
The Green Neon Tetra is a beautiful, shimmering species perfect for aquarists looking to create a natural blackwater biotope or a peaceful planted community tank. With proper care, they add a mesmerizing flash of color and movement to any aquarium.
