i think i would like some tetras

[Doby_the_Dojo]

i have a cycled 20gallon (long) which has no fish in it right now, but i'd like to get some tetras. well actually i decided i want the tank to have a colorful, diverse, compatible community of just tetras... i'm not used to having tetras so i would like some input.... What type of tetras (and maybe how many of each) do you think would do well together and look nice?

 

[ketyana]

Black Phantom and Rosy tetra

Lots of them, all sailing around the thanks, displaying in the evenings to each other as they setle real estate issues!!

They are the most outstanding fish ever





blackphantom

black phantom

rosy tetra

 

[tear-scar]

I always thought that the most beautiful tetra was the emperor tetra, and their fin shape is so different from other tetras. Kept in schools in a densely planted tank with dark substrate, they are simpy stunning. The mature male is studded with intense glowing purple, blue, and yellow. You'd want to pick tetras then that are more slow-moving or small, as emperors sometimes prefer a relaxed place.

 

[David]

Did you do a fishless cycle? I would suggest cardinal or rummy-nose tetras, as well as black phantom and bleeding-heart tetras. They are gorgeous and very fun to watch.

 

[clutterydrawer]

I'm going to agree with everyone else and say...black phantoms! It'sw so fun to watch them display to each other. Mine have "hyper phases" where they zip around really fast in and out of plants. one of them chases another out of the water today

also they're (in my experience) really, really hardy.


cardinals are pretty too though.

 

[TorPeteO]

While they may not be as uncommon as some others, I've always liked Cardinal tetras. A tank I've seen set up at my LPS has a large shoal of them, probably at least 40, and there is a blue flourescent bulb that highlights the blue on their bodies beautifully.

Don't forget corys, though. They'll keep the bottom of the tank sparkling!

 

[Lateral Line]

Newly cycled tanks are frequently unstable. Many small tetras will not take even small nitrogen spikes. Cardinals, Neons, Rummy Noses etc., are really quite sensitive.

Phantoms, Glowlights, Black Widows etc., are more suitable.