What is a Tetra?

A tetra is a small, freshwater fish. There are over 150 species of fish known as tetra, though they do not all belong to the same family or genus, and often represent only some members of a family or genus. All tetras, however, belong to the order Characiformes, which also includes the pirhana, among many other types of fish. Tetras are native to parts of Africa and South and Central America.

The name tetra comes from the Greek word for "four," since tetras and other fish of the Characidae family are characterized by their four fins: the caudal, dorsal, anal, and adipose fins. The adipose fin is often considered the distinguishing feature of the tetra, though some species, such as the emperor tetra, do not have an adipose fin. Tetras often feature brightly colored stripes on the side, and there are many different colors available. For example, emperor tetras are a deep purple if kept in the proper lighting conditions, while the Belgian flag tetra features black, red, and yellow stripes. Bloodfin tetras are silver with red fins.

Many tetra species are popular in freshwater aquariums, since they are peaceful, attractive, and relatively easy to care for. Most tetras can live for about five years in captivity. Tetras of different species will often school together in an aquarium, and tetras are a good choice for a community tank since they live peacefully with other kinds of fish. They should not, however, be kept in the same tank with aggressive fish species. In addition, tetras should always be kept in groups of at least five to ten fish, depending on the species, since they are schoolers by nature and can be stressed by living in solitude.

Neon tetras are perhaps the most popular species for aquariums. The brightly colored fish are native to South America, though they are commercially bred in parts of Asia today. Other popular species of tetra for aquariums are also called neon tetras, though they are not closely related. These include green neon tetras, black neon tetras, and cardinal or red neon tetras.

A tetra is a small, brightly colored freshwater fish belonging to the Characidae family, commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions of South America, Central America, and Africa. They inhabit a variety of water conditions, from clear streams to murky river systems, showcasing their adaptability in diverse aquatic environments.

There are over 150 recognized species of tetras, each with unique patterns, colors, and behaviors. This diversity is a testament to their evolutionary success across various habitats. Aquarium enthusiasts often celebrate tetras for their vibrant appearance and schooling nature, which adds dynamic beauty to home aquariums.

Among the most popular tetras for aquariums are the Neon Tetra, known for its iridescent blue and red stripes, and the Cardinal Tetra, which boasts a similar appearance with more pronounced red coloring. The Rummy-nose Tetra, with its distinctive red head, is also favored for its schooling behavior and peaceful temperament.

Tetras are omnivorous, feeding on a mix of plant material, small invertebrates, and detritus in the wild. In captivity, they thrive on a varied diet of high-quality flake food, brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. It's important to feed them small amounts several times a day to prevent overfeeding and maintain water quality.

An ideal aquarium for tetras mimics their natural habitat, featuring soft, acidic water with a pH between 5.5 and 7.0 and temperatures ranging from 75 to 80°F (24 to 27°C). Dense vegetation, driftwood, and dim lighting can provide shelter and comfort, while a gentle water flow replicates their native riverine conditions.

Yes, different species of tetras can generally be kept together, as they are peaceful fish that enjoy the company of their own kind and other non-aggressive species. It's important to maintain a spacious tank with plenty of hiding spots to prevent stress and ensure a harmonious community aquarium.