Tetras for Sale: Neon, Cardinal and Shoaling Tetras
Hardy, peaceful and full of colour, our tetra fish are quarantined and health checked before delivery across the UK by overnight courier, with every order covered by our Live Arrival Guarantee.
Tetra FAQs
Quick answers to the questions we are asked most about tetra fish.
How many tetras should I keep together?
Keep at least six of the same species, and ten or more if you have the space. Tetras are shoaling fish, so a bigger group feels more secure, shows better colour and swims together more. Our guide on how many fish to keep in a fish tank helps you plan a mixed tank.
What is the difference between a neon tetra and a cardinal tetra?
The cardinal tetra has red colouring along the full length of its body, while the neon tetra has red only on the rear half. Cardinals prefer slightly warmer, softer water. Our cardinal tetra care guide covers the details.
What size tank do tetras need?
Most tetras are happy in a tank of 60 litres or more with gentle filtration. Tiny species such as the ember tetra suit smaller, well established nano tanks, as our ember tetra guide explains.
What temperature do tetras need?
Most tetras do well between 23 and 27°C in mature, stable water. Rummy nose tetras prefer the warmer end of that range, as covered in our rummy nose tetra care guide.
Are tetras good for beginners?
Yes. Hardy tetras such as blood fin, silver tip and emperor tetras are peaceful, easy to feed and a great first shoal, as long as they go into a fully cycled tank.
What fish can live with tetras?
Tetras mix well with corydoras, rasboras, small livebearers and dwarf gouramis. Avoid large, boisterous or fin nipping fish. Our guide to the best tetra tank mates has a full list.
What do tetras eat?
Tetras take small flake, micro pellets and frozen foods such as bloodworm and brine shrimp. Feed a little once or twice a day, only as much as they eat in a couple of minutes.
Which tetras are best for a planted tank?
Ember, neon, cardinal and rummy nose tetras all look stunning against live plants and leave them alone. Our guide to the best fish for planted aquariums has more ideas.
How are tetras delivered?
Every fish is quarantined and health checked before it leaves us. Live fish are dispatched Monday to Wednesday by DEFRA approved overnight courier, so they spend just one night in transit, and every order is covered by our Live Arrival Guarantee. Read more about how live tropical fish are delivered.