Species profile
Gold Neon Tetra
Paracheirodon innesi
Peaceful
Easy care
60 L minimum aquarium
3–4 cm adult size
Midwater
Minimum group: 8
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Selectively bred gold colour form of the Neon Tetra. Husbandry should follow Paracheirodon innesi rather than being treated as a separate species.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
20–26 °C
pH
5–7.5
GH
1–12 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
Shrimp fry
Bioload factor
0.4
Peaceful shoaling fish. Keep a substantial group with calm tankmates; dense planting/wood and darker zones improve confidence.
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
60 L
Minimum footprint
60 × 30 cm
Accepted scientific name
Paracheirodon innesi
Alternative names
Gold Neon Tetra, Golden Neon Tetra, Paracheirodon innesi 'Gold'
Native range
Captive domestic form of Paracheirodon innesi; the parent species is native to western Amazonian tributaries in South America.
Natural habitat
Use a calm, shaded community setup with plant/wood cover and stable clean water; parent-species soft-water conditions are ideal.
Diet & feeding
Small omnivore/invertivore; feed fine flakes/micro-pellets and tiny frozen/live foods.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Females are fuller-bodied; males are generally slimmer. Gold colour does not materially change sexual dimorphism.
Breeding
Egg-scattering non-guarder like the parent species. Very soft acidic breeding water and protection from adults improve success.