Pristella maxillaris
Also called the X-ray tetra for its translucent body and the yellow-black-white triangle on each fin. Tougher than the neon tetra and tolerates a much wider water-parameter range, the right call for hard-water tap setups.
Pristella Tetra (Pristella maxillaris) reaches 4–5 cm as an adult and needs a minimum tank of 75 L. Native to Amazon and Orinoco basins, it lives in the mid water column with a peaceful temperament. Aim for 22–28 °C, pH 6.0–7.5, and 3–15 dGH hardness. Lifespan is 4–5 years with good care. Keep pristella tetra in groups of 8+, yes schoolers need numbers to display natural behaviour. Diet: omnivore, Flake, micro pellets, frozen daphnia and bloodworm. Eats most things. Plant-safe: Yes. Shrimp-safe: Yes (with adults).
Care at a glance
Also called the X-ray tetra for its translucent body and the yellow-black-white triangle on each fin. Tougher than the neon tetra and tolerates a much wider water-parameter range, the right call for hard-water tap setups.
By Mike ElmiraUpdated 1 min read
Part of our complete guide to aquarium fish for the planted tank.
The parameters that decide whether pristella tetra fits in your tank.
Mid
Yes
Group of 8+
Characidae
Omnivore
Flake, micro pellets, frozen daphnia and bloodworm. Eats most things.
4–5 yrs
Medium
Amazon and Orinoco basins
Amazon and Orinoco basins
Tank-mate safety and the species this one is documented to thrive (or fail) alongside.
Direct answers to the questions search engines and AI assistants surface most often about this species.
Pristella Tetra (Pristella maxillaris) needs a minimum tank of 75 L. They live in the mid water column and should be kept in groups of 8+, so a longer footprint matters more than depth.
Target 22–28 °C, pH 6.0–7.5, and 3–15 dGH hardness. Acclimate slowly when moving them between water sources.
Shrimp safety: Yes (with adults). Plant safety: Yes.
Pristella Tetra are omnivore. Flake, micro pellets, frozen daphnia and bloodworm. Eats most things.
On Fin & Stem's 1–5 difficulty scale this species rates 1/5. Almost unkillable, a solid first-tank choice. Breeding difficulty: medium.
Typical lifespan in a well-maintained tank is 4–5 years.
A planted tank is a system. Pair this fish with one entry from each other pillar to plan the whole scape.
