Of the many tropical fish you can keep in a warm water aquarium, the neon fish It is one of the most striking and popular, both for its beauty and its behavior. These freshwater fish are easily recognizable by their vibrant colors and their preference for swimming in groups, making them an excellent choice for those looking to liven up their aquarium. However, there is more to know about them in order to keep them properly.
Neon fish characteristics
El Paracheirodon innesi, commonly known as neon fish, is one of the most popular species in aquarium hobby due to its bright colors, among which stands out an iridescent blue stripe that runs along its body from the eye to the tail, complemented by a red stripe below this line. With a size that rarely exceeds 4 cm, these fish are often confused with the cardinal tetras, which have a red line that covers their entire abdomen, while in neon tetras this stripe only occupies half the body.
Neons are grouped into banks or schools, preferring to live in groups of at least 8 individuals. Their life in the wild led them to develop this gregarious behaviour, which in addition to being striking, provides them with security from predators.
Origins and natural habitat
The neon fish is native to various areas of South America, particularly the Amazon, Orinoco and other tributary river basins in Brazil, Colombia and Peru. Its natural habitat is the igapos, or flooded forests, where the waters are dark due to the decomposition of organic matter. These soft, acidic water conditions, along with low lighting, offer neons the ideal conditions to thrive.
Discovered in 1936 by aquarist William T. Innes, these fish quickly gained popularity in aquariums around the world. However, overexploitation and deforestation in these areas has endangered their natural habitats, so many of the specimens sold today come from captive breeding farms.
Care and maintenance in the aquarium
Neon fish are relatively easy to keep in aquariums as long as certain water parameters are respected and they are offered a suitable environment. Below, we offer a detailed guide with the main cares to keep your neons healthy and happy.
Water parameters
Neons need water slightly acid and soft to thrive. These parameters are crucial to avoid health problems and maintain their vibrant coloration. Ideal water conditions are:
- pH: Between 5.5 and 6.5.
- Temperature: Ideal range between 21°C and 26°C.
- Water hardness: Between 1 and 10 dGH, since they prefer soft waters.
In their natural habitat, neons are usually found in waters with low currents, so it would be advisable to create an environment in the aquarium that simulates these conditions. In addition, they are sensitive to the accumulation of nitrogen compounds such as ammonia, so it is recommended to maintain a good biological filtration system and perform partial water changes regularly.
Ideal aquarium
For neons to feel comfortable, it is essential to have an aquarium of at least 60 liters, enough to keep a group of 8-10 specimens. Although they are relatively small fish, they live better in larger groups. A common mistake is to believe that, due to their size, they can live in small aquariums, but in reality they need space to swim and live in groups.
The aquarium should be decorated with plants, preferably floating or with fine leaves, which provide areas of shade and concealment. Among the most recommended options we find the java moss and other plants like Microsorum o Cryptocoryne, which replicate their natural habitat. The light in the aquarium should be dim, as neons prefer low-light conditions.
Meals
Neons are omnivorous fish, which means that in the wild they feed on a variety of sources, such as small invertebrates, insect larvae, and vegetation. In captivity, they accept all types of commercial foods, such as flakes or pellets, although it is advisable to provide them with a varied diet that includes frozen or live foods, such as mosquito larvae o brine shrimp, which helps maintain their health and bright color. It is also important to offer foods with a high plant content to avoid digestive problems, such as intestinal obstruction.
Compatibility with other species
Neons are peaceful fish that can be kept with other species of similar temperament. Larger fish that may perceive them as prey should be avoided. Some compatible species to keep in the same tank include:
- guppies, which are also peaceful softwater fish.
- Corydoras, which live at the bottom of the aquarium and do not pose a threat to neons.
- Marble hatchetfish, which occupy the upper area of the tank.
It is important to remember that neons need to live in groups. If they are not kept in schools, they can become shy, which will affect both their behaviour and their vitality. Consequently, aggressive fish that can stress or harm them should also be avoided.
Reproduction
Breeding in community aquariums is difficult, as the parents tend to devour the eggs. To try to breed neons, it is ideal to use a breeding aquarium with mosses or fine-leafed plants where eggs can be deposited. The ideal pH for breeding should be acidic, around 5.5-6.5, and water hardness should be kept low (<5° dGH).
Females lay between 100 and 300 eggs, which hatch in 24-36 hours. It is advisable to remove the parents from the breeding tank to prevent them from eating the eggs. To feed the fry, it is necessary to provide infusoria during their first days of life until they can ingest larger foods, such as brine shrimp nauplii.
Fry growth can be slow and requires frequent water changes to keep them in top condition. It is essential to ensure that the water quality is impeccable and that the parameters are set correctly to avoid developmental problems.
Although breeding neon tetras is challenging, the effort may be worth it for experienced aquarists wishing to grow their own specimens at home.
Common Neon Fish Diseases
Despite being hardy fish, neons can be affected by certain diseases if not kept in the right conditions. One of the most well-known diseases that affects them is neon tetra disease, caused by a parasite that attacks the muscle tissue of fish, severely weakening them. Symptoms include:
- Fading of body colors.
- General weakness, including erratic swimming.
- Loss of appetite and difficulty feeding.
Unfortunately, there is no known cure for this disease, and the only way to control it is by removing infected fish from the aquarium to prevent it from spreading to the rest of the population. Additionally, using quality live food or safely frozen food can reduce the risk of infection, as certain live foods can carry this parasite.
Prevention is key to keeping neon fish healthy. Maintaining good water quality, quarantining newly introduced fish, and providing a balanced and varied diet will help keep them healthy and prevent disease.
Not only will neon fish add a burst of color to your aquarium, but they are also friendly and easy to care for if proper guidelines are followed. Maintaining a well-planted aquarium and respecting its water parameters will allow you to enjoy the beauty of these fish for years to come.