Diamond Head Neon Tetra Care Guide with Aquarium Size Requirement:
1. Species Overview:
- Diamond Head Neon Tetras (Paracheirodon innesi) are small, vibrant freshwater fish known for their bright blue and red coloring with a distinctive diamond-shaped reflective patch near their head. They are popular in community aquariums due to their peaceful nature and striking appearance.
2. Aquarium Size:
- A tank of at least 10 gallons is recommended, though a larger tank of 20 gallons or more is ideal to provide ample swimming space.
- Diamond Head Neon Tetras should be kept in schools of at least 6-10 individuals to reduce stress and encourage natural schooling behavior.
3. Water Parameters:
- Maintain water temperature between 70°F and 81°F (21°C to 27°C).
- Keep the pH slightly acidic to neutral, ideally between 6.0 and 7.0.
- Water hardness should be soft to moderately hard, with a range of 1 to 10 dH.
4. Aquarium Setup:
- Provide a dark substrate and plenty of plants to mimic their natural habitat and enhance their colors.
- Include hiding spots with rocks, driftwood, and densely planted areas.
- Ensure the aquarium has gentle water flow and is well-filtered.
5. Diet:
- Diamond Head Neon Tetras are omnivores. Offer a balanced diet of high-quality flake food, micro pellets, and occasional live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms.
- Feed them small amounts 1-2 times a day.
6. Tank Mates:
- They are peaceful and can coexist with other small, non-aggressive fish such as other tetras, rasboras, small gouramis, and corydoras.
- Avoid housing them with larger, aggressive fish that might see them as prey.
7. Fish Size:
- Adult Diamond Head Neon Tetras typically reach a size of 1.5 to 2 inches (4 to 5 centimeters) in length.
8. Disease Prevention:
- Maintain good water quality with regular water changes and a proper filtration system to prevent diseases.
- Quarantine new fish before introducing them to the main tank to avoid spreading diseases.
- Monitor for signs of stress or illness, such as changes in behavior, color loss, or fin damage, and take appropriate action if needed.
By following these care guidelines, you can ensure a healthy and vibrant environment for your Diamond Head Neon Tetras in your aquarium.
