Diamond Head Neon Tetra
Diamond Head Neon Tetra
Diamond Head Neon Tetra (Paracheirodon innesi) is a selectively developed strain in which the iridescent blue-green coloration extends forward over the head and face — creating a diamond-like iridescent cap above the eyes, in addition to the full standard stripe and red belly.
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.
Developed by selecting fish that expressed iridescent blue further forward on the body. Like all Neon Tetra strains, the iridescent blue is produced by light-reflecting guanine crystals. The diamond cap catches light from multiple angles simultaneously.
All care requirements identical to the standard Neon Tetra. Soft, slightly acidic water and subdued lighting produce the richest color. The diamond head effect is most visible under directional aquarium lighting.
Keep in groups of at least 10. Can be mixed with standard Neon Tetras for a visually varied school.
Care & Ideal Parameters
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Temperament | Peaceful — schooling community |
| Typical Adult Size | 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) |
| Min. Group Size | 10 minimum |
| Ideal Temp | 70–81°F (21–27°C) |
| Ideal pH | 6.0–7.5 |
| Ideal GH | 1–10 dGH |
| Ideal KH | 0–5 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 | Captive-bred color strain (wild ancestry western Amazon) |
| Notes | Selectively bred — iridescent blue extends over head creating diamond cap. Most vivid under directional lighting. |
