Pristella Tetra
Pristella Tetra
Pristella Tetra (Pristella maxillaris) is one of the most transparent and delicately beautiful tetras in the hobby — the largely see-through body allows the skeleton to be dimly visible, while the fins are vivid yellow, black, and white in a bold pattern. Notably one of the very few tetras that can tolerate mild brackish water, occurring in both freshwater and coastal brackish habitats.
Feeding & Care Tip: Sera Vipan Tropical Flakes and Hikari Micro Pellets make excellent daily staples. Supplement 2–3× per week with Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms, Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Baby Brine Shrimp, or Hikari Vibra Bites. Feed small amounts 2–3 times daily.
Native to coastal rivers of Venezuela, Guyana, and Trinidad — an exceptionally euryhaline tetra. One of the most broadly compatible tetras available.
Keep in groups of at least 8. The bold yellow, black, and white fin pattern creates a striking display in a large school. Tolerates hard, alkaline, or mildly brackish water that would stress most South American tetras.
The perfect tetra for aquarists who struggle with soft water requirements — one of the most water-parameter-tolerant schooling tetras available.
Care & Ideal Parameters
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Temperament | Peaceful — schooling community |
| Typical Adult Size | 2.0 inches (5 cm) |
| Min. Group Size | 8 minimum |
| Ideal Temp | 72–82°F (22–28°C) |
| Ideal pH | 6.0–8.0 |
| Ideal GH | 5–20 dGH |
| Ideal KH | 2–12 dKH |
| Staple Food | Sera Vipan Tropical Flakes; Hikari Micro Pellets |
| Treat / Supplement | Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms; Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Baby Brine Shrimp; Hikari Vibra Bites |
| Origin | Coastal rivers of Venezuela, Guyana, and Trinidad |
| Notes | Euryhaline — tolerates mild brackish water. Bold yellow-black-white fin pattern. Semi-transparent body. One of most adaptable tetras. |
