The Golden X-Ray Tetra is a classic freshwater aquarium species that is peaceful and hardy!

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The Golden X-Ray Tetra (Pristella maxillaris) is a peaceful, very active fish for the community aquarium. This unique species is widespread throughout the Amazon River basin drainage and is known for its distinctive gold body, deep red tail, and yellow/black fins. It is very adaptable, so it is an excellent candidate for a variety of planted and community aquarium settings.

The Golden X-Ray Tetra typically occupies the top and middle level of the water column, although it can often be seen swimming and feeding in the middle and bottom levels as well. It is safe to keep with other peaceful, small fish as well as peaceful dwarf and Geophagus cichlids. Adult dwarf shrimp are possibly safe tankmates as well, but adult Golden X-Ray Tetras may eat small dwarf shrimp and their fry. Larger, peaceful invertebrates can also make good tankmates. This fish must be kept in groups of at least 6-8 specimens.

While not a picky eater, the Golden X-Ray Tetra will thrive and remain very colorful on a varied diet of meaty foods. High-quality dry, frozen, and live meaty foods will all be readily accepted.

What We Like About This Fish:

Distinctive color and appearance
Peaceful disposition with fish and peaceful invertebrates
Very active and noticeable fish in any aquarium
Hardy and adaptable
Thrives in a heavily planted aquarium

RECOMMENDED TANK PARAMETERS:

Temperature: 72° - 82.4° F (22° - 28° C)
pH: 6.0 - 7.5 (more acidic water is preferred for spawning)
KH: 2 - 20 dKH
Minimum tank size: 15-20 gallons for a group of 6-8 adults

CARE GUIDELINES:

Diet: Mostly carnivorous. Will easily accept high quality dry, frozen, and live foods
Social behavior: Peaceful, schooling/shoaling.
Origin: Tank-bred, but indigenous throughout Amazon River Basin
Average adult size: 1.6 - 1.8 inches (4 - 4.5 cm)
Average purchase size: 1 inch (2.5 cm)

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Golden X-Ray Tetra (Pristella maxillaris), Locally-Bred