Knowra Neon tetra Neon tetra The neon tetra (Paracheirodon innesi) is a small freshwater fish native to the Amazon basin, distinguished by an iridescent blue stripe and a red stripe along its body.
Characidae : A diverse family of freshwater fishes native mainly to Central and South America and Africa. The neon tetra belongs to this family of mostly small, often colorful freshwater fishes.
Structural coloration : Color produced by microscopic structures that interact with light rather than by pigments alone. The neon tetra’s blue stripe derives much of its color from light-reflecting tissue structures.
Freshwater aquarium fish : Freshwater fish kept in aquariums for display, study, or breeding. Neon tetras are among the most widely kept members of this group.
Cardinal tetra : A small South American tetra, Paracheirodon axelrodi, with a blue stripe and a red stripe extending along most of its body. Its red stripe runs farther forward than the neon tetra’s, making it a frequent look-alike.
Paracheirodon : A genus of small South American freshwater fishes that includes neon tetras, cardinal tetras, and green neon tetras. This genus places the neon tetra among its close relatives.
Chromatophore : A pigment-containing or light-reflecting cell that contributes to color in fish and other animals. Chromatophores help produce and regulate the neon tetra’s body coloration.
Aquascaping : The art of arranging aquatic plants, rocks, and other materials in an aquarium. Their blue and red colors stand out against planted aquarium layouts.
Green neon tetra : A small South American fish, Paracheirodon simulans, with a bright blue-green stripe and little red coloration. This close relative lacks the neon tetra’s prominent red stripe.
Amazon basin : The vast drainage region of the Amazon River, spanning parts of several South American countries. Its native waters lie in tributaries across this tropical region.
Fish lateral line : A sensory system that detects water movement and pressure changes along a fish’s body. It helps neon tetras sense nearby movement in dim, vegetation-filled waters.
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