How to Care for Tetras

Tetras appreciate plants in their tanks to block out light.

Tetras are small fish that are commonly sold in pet stores. Compared to many other fish, Tetras have a long lifespan, often living for more than 10 years in captivity. Petsmart, a retail store specializing in pets and pet supplies, recommends Tetras as a good choice for beginning fish keepers.There are many different species of Tetra, the most popular of which are Neon tetra, a brightly colored fish native to the Amazon River in South America.

Things You'll Need

• Heated Tank
• Fish
• Plants
• Food

Instructions

1. Prepare the tank for the Tetras by heating the water to between 75 and 78 degrees. Water recommendations from the University of Hawaii Sea Grant Extension Service state that Tetras prefer moderately soft water that is slightly acidic, with a pH of 6.8 being ideal. Keeping your water at this level will make your Tetras healthier and more colorful.

2. Add plants to your tank to keep lights from shining too brightly. Tetras prefer less light in their tank than many other types of fish.

3. Purchase enough Tetras to create a school. information from the Sea Grant Extension suggests that Tetras do best when they are kept in in groups of five or more fish.

4. Provide meat-based food for most meals. You can offer vegetative meals occasionally; if possible, substitute live food two or three times a week.

Tips & Warnings

• Feed your Tetra small meals regularly because they do not eat large amounts at one time.

• Avoid tapping on the tank housing Tetras. They get stressed by loud noise, and some smaller species can literally be scared to death.

References

• University of Hawaii Sea Grant Extension Service; "Spawning and Production of the Serpae Tetra, Hyphessobrycon Serpae"; Brian Cole and Michael Haring; April 1999
• Petsmart: Care Guides: Fish Tetra