Tetras: The Most Popular Fish In The World

Small, peace loving, and impressively colorful, tetras are among the most popular and widely sold fish in the world.

Being a hardy species, they are sometimes termed the perfect beginner’s fish. They are generally easy to maintain, though harder to breed than other aquarium fish.

Characteristic Of Tetras

Tetras are alert and hear very well. They’ll quickly know when someone is approaching the tank, and will be among the first to take cover. They also possess a chemical warning system telling them if any member of the school is injured. When a fish gets injured, the whole school may get nervous and hide!

Best Aquarium To House Tetras

Tetras are schooling fish, which means they are happiest hanging out in a school of six or more of the same species. There are many varieties of tetras. The more of each variety you have, the better. This is because they prefer to school with their own kind, though they do sometimes mix with other tetras into one large school.

Be careful not to overdo it. Too many tetras won’t look like a school, while too few in a large tank may not be enough for a school. A fine balance between space and numbers must be ensured.

They are mighty impressive when swimming around in schools, tetras are best showcased in long, rather than squarish tanks. They offer better colors contrast in fully planted aquariums with dark background and sides, where they can dart in and out among plants, which provide them with a sense of security.

Tetras are extremely good-natured and non-aggressive. Although they can defend themselves, you shouldn’t tempt fate by putting them into a tank of aggressive fish, as they may still get bullied or killed.

On Feeding Tetras

Most tetras are not herbivorous, and will leave your plants alone. They feed frenziedly, darting for food once it hits the water. These non-fussy eaters will eat almost everything you feed them, including flakes, freeze-dried food, frozen and live foods, as long as it is small enough for their mouths.

On Buying Tetras

When buying tetras, make sure all the fish in the tank look healthy. Watch out for spots, discoloration, dark patches, fungus, and rotting fins. Be very picky!

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