Neon tetra "diamond" EU-NZ - Paracheirodon innesi

The Diamond Neon also belongs to the group of tetras. Thereby the Paracheirodon simulans also originates from humic and very soft waters of South America.

This eye-catching and very pretty schooling fish is a popular aquarium fish that grows to a size of just 3 to 3.5 cm. Its glittering upper side, especially on the head, which resembles small floating diamonds depending on the incidence of light, is striking. Its basic color is light transparent to silver and can be red from the middle of the body to the caudal fin, depending on age.

Females can be distinguished from males primarily because of their conspicuous size and stature. They tend to be larger and stronger, but distinguishing them is still quite complicated. This Paracheirodon simulans is also a schooling fish that should be kept in groups of at least 10 . Since Tetras consider their group size a strength, groups that are too small can quickly become frantic and anxious. With very good care, Neon Diamond Tetras can live up to 5 years.

Diamond Neons are very difficult to breed, as they require, among other things, relatively extreme soft water conditions, which are virtually impossible to practice in a community aquarium. In a rather dark aquarium with a pH below 5 and a temperature between 25 and 26 °C the animals could be induced to lay eggs. However, since they chase their own offspring, they should be raised in a rearing aquarium with infusoria and nauplii.

The aquarium of the Diamond Neon Tetras should contain at least 54 liters and may be planted very densely in places, so that the animals can withdraw. Especially Floating plants and for example Lotus plantswhich form their leaves at the water surface, contribute to shady corners, because the tetras do not like bright lighting or reflecting ground. A dark gravel or sand is therefore preferable. The aquarium water should be soft to medium hard and show a temperature between 25 and 28 °C.

As a quite peaceful tetra it can also be socialized with well reproducing dwarf shrimp species, whereby their young might be eaten by it. Also suitable are Corydoras, Ancistrus and others Tetras are suitable as by-fish, if they have similar demands on their water.

As omnivores, Diamond Neons feed mainly on small crustaceans and insects. In the aquarium they can therefore be fed well with a dry food in the form of flake food or granulated food with small grain size for omnivorous ornamental fish. Occasionally this can be alternated with very small live food or frozen food such as daphnia or water fleas .

Our food recommendation: The NatureHolic Main Feed is a professional staple food for all aquarium fish. Main feed we supply in the form of soft granules, which thanks to its grain size of half a millimeter can be easily absorbed by small to medium-sized fish. The soft consistency resembles the texture of insect larvae in nature and protects the fish mouth from micro-injuries.

Our plant recommendation: Use for planting NatureHolic InVitros. These are free of snails, planarians and other unwanted co-inhabitants. Also free from algae spores, bacteria and fungi.

Expert Tip: We recommend for fish keeping the NatureHolic 3 Phase Liquid. The care set offers the best all-round protection for your animals. It ensures optimal conditions for successful breeding and keeping.