Where are X-Ray Tetra found in the wild?

This dazzling little fish swims in the warm waters of the Amazon River and its surrounding rivers and streams. X-Ray Tetras thrive in freshwater habitats, enjoying areas with plenty of plants to hide in and swim around, making them the social butterflies of the underwater world!

"File:Pristella tetra1.jpg" by Debivort is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

X-Ray Tetra

Explore the sparkling world of tiny, see-through swimmers!

"File:Pristella tetra1.jpg" by Debivort is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

The Basics

Scientific Name

Pristella maxillaris

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Location

South America

Average size

Up to 2 inches long

diet

Small insects, crustaceans, plants

lifespan

3 to 5 years

Let’s Explore

Overview

The X-Ray Tetra is a tiny fish that sparkles like a diamond in the water. It gets its name from its see-through body that reveals its internal structure, making it look like a living aquarium exhibit!
This fish measures up to 5 centimeters (2 inches) in length and lives in the warm waters of South America. They swim happily in schools, darting around as if they are performing underwater ballet.
X-Ray Tetras love to munch on small insects, crustaceans, and plants. They are like the picky eaters of the fish world, preferring only the freshest snacks from their aquatic buffet!
These fish typically live for about 3 to 5 years, which is like being a superstar in the fish kingdom! They have fun personalities and enjoy interacting with each other and their tank mates.
With their lively spirit and fascinating appearance, X-Ray Tetras capture the imagination of fish enthusiasts everywhere. They remind us that even the smallest creatures can have a big impact in their watery homes!

Where can you find a X-Ray Tetra in the wild?

What does a X-Ray Tetra eat?

How big can a X-Ray Tetra grow?

How long does a X-Ray Tetra typically live?

What is the conservation status of the X-Ray Tetra?

What are the main threats to the X-Ray Tetra?

wowzerful facts

X-Ray Tetras have a transparent body that lets you see their internal organs, making them look like swimming ghosts in the water!

This lively little fish loves to hang out in large groups, sometimes numbering in the hundreds! It's like having a big underwater family reunion, where they all swim and play together.

These fish can change color slightly depending on their surroundings! They can become brighter or duller, just like how a chameleon changes to blend in.

X-Ray Tetras communicate using body language and small movements. They wiggle their tails and fins to send signals to their buddies, proving that fish have their own way of chatting!

Even though they are tiny, these fish are full of personality! Some aquarists say that X-Ray Tetras act like they are performing a ballet, gracefully dancing through the water with their friends.

X-Ray Tetras prefer to swim near the surface of the water, where they can easily spot food and avoid larger fish. It's like having a front-row seat for dinner!

A school of X-Ray Tetras can appear so synchronized that they look like a single wave moving through the water. They all twist and turn together, like expert dancers practicing their routine!

These fish are a popular choice for home aquariums because of their vivid colors and lively nature. They brighten up any fish tank, turning it into an underwater party!

X-Ray Tetras eat a mix of food that includes tiny insects, which they hunt for like little underwater detectives, searching for their next meal!

Some aquarists say X-Ray Tetras can recognize their owners! They might swim up to the glass when they see you, just like a puppy running to greet its favorite human!