Species profile
X-Ray Tetra
Pristella maxillaris
Peaceful
Easy care
60 L minimum aquarium
4–5 cm adult size
Midwater
Minimum group: 8
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Hardy, peaceful shoaling tetra with unusually broad water tolerance, but still requires stable conditions and a suitable group.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
24–28 °C
pH
6–8
GH
Up to 25 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Low–moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 8
Tank zone
Midwater
Territory level
None
Predation risk
Tiny fry
Bioload factor
0.65
Non-territorial community fish; confidence and natural behaviour improve in a substantial shoal.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
Yes
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
60 L
Minimum footprint
60 × 30 cm
Accepted scientific name
Pristella maxillaris
Alternative names
X-Ray Tetra, Pristella Tetra, X-Ray Fish
Native range
Northern South America, including coastal drainages of Venezuela, Guyana and adjacent Brazil.
Natural habitat
Vegetated coastal rivers, swamps and seasonally influenced freshwater habitats.
Diet & feeding
Small omnivore taking worms, crustaceans, insects and prepared foods.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Females are generally larger/deeper-bodied and become noticeably fuller with eggs.
Breeding
Prolific non-guarding egg scatterer; adults should be separated from eggs when purposeful breeding.