Catalog / fish / Green neon tetra
fish · Characidae
Green neon tetra
Paracheirodon simulans
Wild range: Orinoco and Negro rivers (South America)

At a glance: Green neon tetra care
Compiled reference information. Review the care notes and original sources below.
What temperature is listed for Green neon tetra?
The compiled profile lists 22.0–28.0 °C for Green neon tetra (Paracheirodon simulans). Check the original sources below for context and differing recommendations.
What tank size is listed for Green neon tetra?
The profile lists a minimum tank volume of 10.0 US gallons (37.9 liters). Volume alone does not establish suitability; consider dimensions, group size and other inhabitants alongside the full care notes.
What pH is listed for Green neon tetra?
The compiled profile lists a pH of 3.0–7.5. Review the cited care sources alongside the other water parameters in this profile.
Natural habitat
Green neon tetras inhabit slow-moving waters with soft, slightly acidic conditions found around the Orinoco and Negro rivers in South America. They thrive in dense vegetation and shades created by overhanging plants and driftwood, absorbing natural colors from the habitat.
Where they are found
Native to the Amazon basin in South America, this species inhabits areas with soft, slightly acidic waters. They are commonly found in forested streams where vegetation provides shelter and breeding grounds.
Aquarium care
To keep Green Neon Tetras happy, provide them with a heavily planted aquarium featuring dim lighting and ample hiding spaces. A gentle filter is ideal to mimic their natural slow-flowing habitat, and maintaining a well-structured environment encourages their vibrant colors to shine through.
Feeding
Feed them a balanced diet of high-quality flake or micro pellet foods to ensure proper nutrition. Supplement with occasional live or frozen foods like baby brine shrimp or daphnia to bring out their colors.
Compatibility
Green Neon Tetras are peaceful community fish. Ideal tank mates include other small, non-aggressive species and bottom dwellers like Corydoras catfish. However, avoid keeping them with large or aggressive fish that could pose a threat.
Breeding
Breeding Green Neon Tetras can be achieved in a separate breeding tank that features soft and slightly acidic water. Fine-leaved plants should be provided for spawning, and it's best to introduce pairs in the evening, as these fish are more likely to breed in dim light.
Sources
Compiled from multiple independent care sheets — not copied from a single site.