Green Neon Tetra
Green Neon Tetra
Green Neon Tetra (Paracheirodon simulans) is a distinct species from the Neon and Cardinal Tetras — smaller, with a more vivid green iridescent stripe and only a partial red belly restricted to the rear of the body. The smallest of the three Paracheirodon species and arguably the most demanding — a true blackwater specialist from some of the most pristine and acidic waters in the Amazon basin. Simulans means 'resembling' — a reference to its superficial similarity to the Cardinal Tetra.
Feeding & Care Tip: Hikari Micro Pellets (crushed or soaked briefly) and Sera Vipan Baby make excellent daily staples. Supplement 2–3× per week with Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Baby Brine Shrimp and Hikari Frozen Daphnia. Feed small amounts 2–3 times daily in a calm environment.
Native to the upper Rio Negro and Rio Orinoco drainages — waters with pH values that can fall as low as 3.5 in the wild. The green iridescent stripe is more purely green and slightly more vivid than the blue-green of the Neon Tetra, reflecting adaptation to different light conditions in its deeper blackwater habitat.
More sensitive to water quality and chemistry than either the Neon or Cardinal. A mature aquarium with established blackwater conditions — tannins, soft water, stable low pH — is strongly recommended.
Keep in groups of at least 10. At their best in a species-specific or blackwater biotope setup alongside other blackwater nano species.
Care & Ideal Parameters
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Temperament | Peaceful — blackwater specialist |
| Typical Adult Size | 1.25 inches (3.2 cm) |
| Min. Group Size | 10 minimum |
| Ideal Temp | 75–82°F (24–28°C) |
| Ideal pH | 5.0–6.5 |
| Ideal GH | 0–6 dGH |
| Ideal KH | 0–3 dKH |
| Staple Food | Hikari Micro Pellets (crushed/soaked); Sera Vipan Baby |
| Treat / Supplement | Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Baby Brine Shrimp; Hikari Frozen Daphnia |
| Origin | Upper Rio Negro and Rio Orinoco drainages, Brazil, Colombia, Venezuela |
| Notes | Third Paracheirodon species — distinct from Neon and Cardinal. Simulans = 'resembling'. Smallest of the three. True blackwater specialist. Wild pH can reach 3.5. |
