X-Ray Fork Tail Tetra (Pristella maxillaris 'fork tail') - Tank Bred

or the safety of our animals, we now ship live fish exclusively via UPS Next Day Air. If your order contains this item, you will only see UPS Next Day Air as a shipping option during checkout.

This unique morph of the classic X-Ray Tetra was selectively bred to display a distinct forked tail instead of the standard rounded one. The X-Ray Fork Tail Tetra is a new addition to the hobby, and we’re happy to report it’s done very well for us here at Aquatic Arts! Once they settle into a well-planted aquarium and their colors begin to shine, they truly become eye-catching additions to any tank. Like their standard counterparts, these tetras are peaceful, hardy, and excellent for community tanks. Best of all, this morph will shoal with all types of tetras, making it an adaptable and social tankmate.

What We Love About This Fish:

• Forked Tail Morph: Unique appearance sets them apart from standard X-Ray Tetras.
• New to the Hobby: A rare find with striking potential in a planted setup.
• Hardy and Peaceful: Excellent for beginners and community aquariums.
• Great Shoaler: Mixes well with other tetras for dynamic group behavior.

Natural Habitat:

The wild-type Pristella maxillaris is native to slow-moving streams and floodplain areas in South America. They’re typically found in clear to slightly tannin-stained waters, often among aquatic vegetation and submerged roots.

Aquascaping:

• Plants: Ideal with dense planting such as Java Fern, Water Sprite, Cryptocoryne, and Amazon Sword.
• Hardscape: Use smooth river stones, spiderwood, or Malaysian driftwood to create natural retreats.
• Botanicals: Add Indian Almond Leaves or alder cones to enrich the water and create a blackwater environment that enhances coloration.

Diet and Feeding:

This species is omnivorous and accepts a wide range of foods. Feed a balanced diet of high-quality flakes, micro pellets, and occasional frozen or live foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp, or bloodworms to promote vibrant coloration and optimal health.

Tank Mates and Compatibility:

The X-Ray Fork Tail Tetra is peaceful and thrives in a community setup. Ideal tankmates include other small tetras, rasboras, corydoras, dwarf gouramis, and peaceful livebearers. Avoid aggressive or much larger species.

Shrimp Safe?:

Generally considered shrimp-safe, especially with adult Neocaridina and Caridina shrimp. Fry may be at risk, so provide plenty of hiding spaces if breeding shrimp.

Breeding:

Similar to standard Pristella Tetras, breeding occurs in groups. Provide soft water, fine-leaved plants or spawning mops, and condition the group with protein-rich foods to trigger spawning behavior.

Recommended Tank Parameters:

• Temperature: 72° – 80° F (22° – 27° C)
• pH: 6.5 – 7.8
• KH: 2 – 10 dKH
• Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons

Care Guidelines:

• Diet: Omnivorous. Accepts flakes, micro pellets, and frozen/live foods.
• Social Behavior: Peaceful shoaling species. Keep in groups of 6 or more.
• Origin: Tank bred
• Average Adult Size: 1.75 inches (4.5 cm)
• Average Purchase Size: 0.75 – 1 inch (2 – 2.5 cm)

Add a Unique Twist to Your Tetra School!
The X-Ray Fork Tail Tetra combines everything aquarists love about classic schooling fish with a brand-new twist. Their forked tails and bold behavior make them stand out in any planted tank. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned hobbyist, these fish are a fun and peaceful addition to your community aquarium.

Live Arrival Guarantee:
All Aquatic Arts brand animals come with a 100% live arrival guarantee, plus free email support from our team of aquatic experts.