Albino Neon Tetra

The Albino Neon Tetra Paracheirodon innesi has a long history as a very exciting addition to the aquarium hobby. It created a stir when first introduced in the 1930’s and is still sought after by aquarium enthusiasts today. A school of flashing Albino Neon Tetras makes a brilliant display and will liven up any peaceful community tank.

The Neon shares its popularity spotlight with its close relative the Cardinal Tetra Paracheirodon axelrodi. These two tetras are very similar in appearance, but the Cardinal Tetra is a bit more gaudy. It has red coloring running along the whole length of its body rather than just the back half. It is also more delicate and a little more of a challenge to maintain. The Albino Neon Tetra is every bit as attractive but is much easier to keep, and it’s also easier to breed than the Cardinal.

Albino Neon Tetras can be kept in a planted aquarium with a dark gravel substrate. They can also be kept in an aquarium with a lot of driftwood or bog wood, to better simulate their natural habitat. Both of those types of decor will help to display their colors. Their water should be soft, clean, slightly acidic, and changed regularly. The Albino Neon Tetra can live 10 years or more with the proper conditions.