Tetras

Tetras are popular tropical community fish known for their bright colours, peaceful behaviour and attractive schooling movement. They are available in a wide range of species and are a great choice for planted aquariums and community tanks.

Our range may include Neon Tetras, Cardinal Tetras, Black Neon Tetras, Rummynose Tetras, Ember Tetras, Serpae Tetras, Congo Tetras and other varieties depending on availability.

Tetras for Community Aquariums

Tetras are generally peaceful fish and many species are well suited to community aquariums.

They are usually best kept with other non-aggressive fish that prefer similar water conditions.

Suitable tank mates can include:

• Corydoras
• Guppies
• Rasboras
• Gouramis
• Bristlenose Catfish
• Peaceful dwarf Cichlids
• Other compatible Tetras

Avoid keeping small Tetras with large predatory fish that may see them as food.

Keeping Tetras in Groups

Most Tetras are schooling or shoaling fish and generally feel more secure when kept in suitable groups.

Larger groups often encourage more natural behaviour and can make their colours and movement much more impressive.

The ideal group size depends on species and aquarium size, but keeping several together is generally preferable to keeping a single Tetra.

Aquarium Size

Tetras vary considerably in adult size.

Small species such as Ember or Neon Tetras can suit compact community aquariums, while larger species such as Congo Tetras require more swimming space.

When choosing your aquarium, consider:

• Adult fish size
• Group size
• Swimming activity
• Tank mates
• Filtration
• Available open swimming space

A longer aquarium can be particularly beneficial for active schooling species.

Water Conditions

Many commonly kept Tetras prefer stable tropical freshwater conditions.

Exact requirements vary by species, but good water quality and consistent conditions are particularly important.

Some South American Tetras naturally occur in softer, slightly acidic water, while captive-bred fish can often adapt successfully to a wider range of aquarium conditions.

Always check individual species requirements before purchasing.

Feeding Tetras

Tetras are generally easy to feed and benefit from a varied diet.

Suitable foods can include:

• Quality tropical flakes
• Small pellets
• Micro pellets
• Frozen foods
• Small live foods
• Insect-based foods

Choose foods that are appropriately sized for the species.

Feeding small amounts several times rather than large amounts at once can help ensure food is eaten before it reaches the substrate.

Tetras & Live Plants

Tetras are an excellent choice for planted aquariums.

Their colours often stand out beautifully against green plants and natural hardscape.

Live plants can also provide:

• Shelter
• Shaded areas
• Visual barriers
• Natural-looking habitat
• Cover for shy fish

Aquariums with a combination of dense planting and open swimming areas can work particularly well.

Popular Tetras

Neon Tetras

Neon Tetras are one of the most recognisable freshwater aquarium fish.

They are known for their bright blue and red colouration and look particularly impressive when maintained in groups.

Cardinal Tetras

Cardinal Tetras resemble Neon Tetras but usually display a longer red stripe along the body.

They are popular in planted and aquascaped freshwater tanks.

Rummynose Tetras

Rummynose Tetras are known for their bright red heads and distinctive black-and-white tails.

They are active schooling fish and can create impressive coordinated movement in a suitable group.

Ember Tetras

Ember Tetras are small orange-coloured fish that work particularly well in nano and planted aquariums.

Their compact size makes them a popular choice for smaller community setups.

Congo Tetras

Congo Tetras are larger African Tetras known for their iridescent colour and flowing fins.

They require more swimming space than many smaller Tetra species.

Tetra Tank Mates

Good tank mates are generally peaceful fish of a similar size and temperament.

Suitable companions may include:

• Corydoras
• Rasboras
• Guppies
• Peaceful Gouramis
• Bristlenose Catfish
• Dwarf Cichlids
• Other compatible schooling fish

Some species, such as Serpae Tetras, can be more prone to fin nipping and may require more careful stocking.

Filtration & Water Quality

Reliable filtration and regular water changes are important for maintaining healthy Tetras.

Most species appreciate clean, well-oxygenated water without excessive current.

A mature aquarium with stable water conditions is generally preferable to a newly established tank.

Buy Tetras Online in Australia

Aquaholics Online stocks a changing range of Tetras for freshwater aquarium enthusiasts across Australia.

Because live fish availability changes regularly, individual species, colours and sizes may vary.

Browse the current range above to see which Tetras are available now.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many Tetras should be kept together?

Most Tetras are social schooling fish and generally do best in groups. The appropriate number depends on species, aquarium size and filtration.

Are Tetras good beginner fish?

Many Tetra species are suitable for beginners when kept in a stable, properly cycled aquarium with compatible tank mates.

Can Tetras live with Guppies?

Many peaceful Tetra species can live successfully with Guppies when water conditions and aquarium size suit both.

Can Tetras live with Corydoras?

Yes. Corydoras and peaceful Tetras are a popular combination because they occupy different areas of the aquarium.

Do Tetras need live plants?

Live plants are not essential, but they can provide shelter and create a more natural environment. Tetras also look particularly attractive in planted aquariums.

What do Tetras eat?

Most Tetras eat quality flakes, micro pellets and appropriately sized frozen or live foods.

Do Tetras need a heater?

Most commonly kept Tetras are tropical fish and require stable warm water, so a suitable aquarium heater is generally recommended.

How long do Tetras live?

Lifespan varies by species, but many Tetras can live for several years with suitable water quality, diet and aquarium care.

Can different Tetra species be kept together?

Yes, many species can coexist peacefully. However, each species generally still benefits from being kept with enough of its own kind to display natural social behaviour.

Do you ship Tetras Australia-wide?

Aquaholics Online ships live fish to eligible Australian locations, subject to availability, regional restrictions and biosecurity requirements.