Species profile
Green Neon Tetra
Paracheirodon simulans
Peaceful
Moderate care
45 L minimum aquarium
2–3 cm adult size
Midwater
Minimum group: 10
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Very small soft-water neon from blackwater systems. Best in a large shoal in warm, shaded, biologically mature aquaria.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
24–27 °C
pH
5.5–6.5
GH
Up to 8 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Low
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 10
Tank zone
Midwater
Territory level
None
Predation risk
Shrimp fry
Bioload factor
0.3
Peaceful tight-shoaling micro-tetra. Small size makes it vulnerable to boisterous tankmates and predatory community fish.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Low
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
45 L
Minimum footprint
45 × 30 cm
Accepted scientific name
Paracheirodon simulans
Alternative names
Green Neon Tetra, False Neon Tetra, Paracheirodon simulans
Native range
Rio Negro and upper Orinoco blackwater systems of northern South America.
Natural habitat
Shaded warm blackwater tributaries. Use soft acidic water, leaf litter/wood, subdued light and gentle circulation.
Diet & feeding
Micro-predatory omnivore. Offer very small dry foods and tiny frozen/live invertebrates such as cyclops and Artemia nauplii.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Females become slightly fuller-bodied; external sex differences are otherwise subtle.
Breeding
Egg-scattering non-guarder. Breeding requires very soft acidic water; eggs/fry are tiny and adults should be excluded from the spawn.