Neon tetra care

[zen_9]

Just got a school of Neon tetras and wanna make sure I'm doing it right. My tank's a 20 gallon long, planted with Java fern and Anubias. Water's at 76F, pH around 6.8. Any tips on feeding or tankmates?

[morgel]

Neon tetras thrive in soft, slightly acidic water, so your pH is good. Keep nitrates below 20 ppm, they're sensitive. For tankmates, avoid anything aggressive. Ember tetras or Corydoras work well. Feed them micro pellets or crushed flakes twice a day, small portions.

[floradot]

I've kept Neon tetras for years. They do best in groups of at least six. Make sure your filter flow isn't too strong, they prefer calm water. Also, dim lighting brings out their colors more.

[creek7]

Agree with the others on tankmates. I'd add that live foods like brine shrimp or daphnia really make their colors pop. Just don't overfeed, it's easy to mess with their tiny stomachs.

[zen_9]

Thanks for the advice, everyone. Gonna try adding some Ember tetras and cut back on the filter flow. Appreciate it!

[morgel]

Thanks for the advice, everyone. Gonna try adding some Ember tetras and cut back on the filter flow. Appreciate it!

Good call. Just monitor the Embers at first, sometimes they can be a bit nippy if underfed.

[floradot]

One more thing, if you're using CO2, keep it low. Neon tetras can get stressed with high CO2 levels. I keep mine at around 15 ppm.

[creek7]

Yeah, CO2 can be sketchy with these guys. Also, watch for any signs of Neon tetra disease, it's a real bummer. Quarantine new fish if you can.

[morgel]

Yeah, CO2 can be sketchy with these guys. Also, watch for any signs of Neon tetra disease, it's a real bummer. Quarantine new fish if you can.

Exactly. Neon tetra disease is no joke. Look for fading colors or curved spines. Once it's in the tank, it's hard to stop.

[floradot]

I've found that keeping the water super clean helps prevent disease. Weekly 25% water changes and a good gravel vacuum routine make a big difference.