Tetra (Community) - Petco

Tetra (Community)Paracheirodon spp, Megalamphodus sppCommunity tetras are generally quiet and non-aggressive. These brightly coloredschooling fish add movement and color to any aquarium. Found primarily inSouth America, community tetras include neon, lemon, flame, gold, and emperortetras, among others. Most species are recommended for beginning aquarists.Is a community tetra the right choice for your aquarium?Yes No Check “Yes” or “No” after reading the following statements:❑ ❑ 1. I have room for an appropriate size aquarium.❑ ❑ 2. This tetra would be compatible with my other aquariuminhabitants.❑ ❑ 3. I can commit to providing proper care for this tetra.❑ ❑ 4. A mature person will provide responsible and primary care for this fish.If you answered “Yes” to these statements, a community tetra may be the right choice for you! Continue readingabout how to care for a tetra and consult with a PETCO associate to learn more. PETCO is committed toresponsible aquarium care.Average Size 1 to 4 inches long, depending on species Life Span Up to 3 years with proper careDietTropical flake foodsTreats include bloodworms or brine shrimp (live or frozen)FeedingFeed according to the directions on the packagingThaw frozen foods before feedingHousingThey require less space than saltwater fish (about 1 inch of fish per one gallon of water)Provide proper filtration to maintain healthColors show best under black light, or in moderately lit aquariums with dark substrateWater temperature should range from 72° F. to 82° F.Stable water quality, water temperature, and pH levels are critical to the health of fish.If you are unsure of your water quality or pH levels, PETCO provides free water testing.RecommendedSupplies❑ Appropriate size aquarium ❑ Tropical flake food ❑ Décor❑ Water conditioner ❑ Bloodworms ❑ Net❑ Water test kit ❑ Brine shrimp ❑ Filter❑ Thermometer ❑ Aquarium cover ❑ Light❑ Heater ❑ Substrate ❑ Airstone❑ Book about freshwater fish or aquariums ❑ Air pump© 2004, PETCO Animal Supplies, Inc. All rights reserved. (0315) 1 of 2

Tetra (Community)Paracheirodon spp, Megalamphodus sppCharacteristicsSchooling fish; happiest in groups of five or more of the same speciesInhabit the middle of the aquariumFeel more secure when plenty of hiding places are providedHabitatMaintenanceCheck filter, other equipment, and water temperature dailyCheck water quality at least once a weekChange 10–25% of the total volume of water every two to four weeks, or as neededIntroduce new fish to the aquarium graduallyCompatibilityCompatible with other community tetras, danios, rasboras, smaller plecos, and catfishCan be compatible with less aggressive barbs and gouramisKeep in same-species schoolsSigns of aHealthy FishCommonHealth IssuesSigns of IllnessPreventingCommonHealth Issues Eats vigorously Clear eyes Active swimming Regular breathingHealth Issue (alpha) Symptoms or Causes Suggested ActionFin RotIchFins appear opaque orfrayed.White spots appear on finsand body. Fish rubs againsthard objects or swimsawkwardly.Improve water quality and useappropriate antibacterialmedication.Quarantine fish immediately. Usecommercial Ich remedy for at leasttwo weeks. White spots on fins and body Spots or fungus on body or mouth Labored breathing Loss of appetite Frayed fins Elevated scalesIf you notice any of these signs, test water quality and improve as necessaryAvoid crowded conditions; they are a major cause of stress and diseaseMaintain good water quality with regular water changes and adequate filtrationSourcesAquarium Fish by Ulrich SchliewenThe ASPCA Complete Guide to Pet Care by David L. CarrollThe Simple Guide to Freshwater Aquariums by David E. BoruchowitzNote: The information on this Care Sheet is not a substitute for veterinary care. If you need additionalinformation, please refer to the above sources or contact your veterinarian as appropriate.2 of 2 SKU 926990 © 2004, PETCO Animal Supplies, Inc. All rights reserved. (0315)