Pristella Tetra     Pristella maxillaris

Grows to: 1.5"

Hobbyist Level:  A hardy fish suitable for beginners.

How Many?  They are a schooling fish that should be be purchased in groups of 4 or more.  Six or more is best.

Housing:  Provide plenty of swimming room as well as some bushy plants for hiding.  They look good with a dark substrate.  They swim in the mid to upper region of the tank.  They enjoy a healthy water current.  Unlike most tetras, they are tolerant of slightly brackish water.  Minimum tank size is about 10 gallons. (Temperature- 72-82),  (pH 6.0-7.5)

Tank mates:  They are peaceful fish that should be kept with other peaceful fish of similar size.

Feeding:  They will accept a variety of foods.  Feed flakes, along with brine shrimp and frozen foods.  Tetras will show their best color after you have owned it for a few months and have given them a good diet.  They are an omnivore.

Natural Habitat:  Venezuela, Guyana, & Brazil.  Fish sold at Elmer's are domestically raised.

Males and Females:  Females will be more full bodied when plump with eggs.  Females may also appear more silver due to a larger, rounder swim bladder.

See also:  Tetras