X-ray Tetra

Pristella maxillaris

X-ray Tetra is a peaceful middle swimmer. Keep in a school of 8+.

PeacefulMiddle swimmerKeep in a school of 8+Beginner

Save this fish or add it directly to one of your aquariums.

Quick facts

Adult size
≤ 2" (≤ 5 cm)
Aquarium size
21 US gal (80 L) or larger / ≥ 23.6" (≥ 60 cm) minimum length
Care level
Beginner
Temperament
Peaceful
Swimming zone
Middle swimmer
Temperature
73–81°F (23–27°C)
pH
6–8
GH
4–18 dGH
Diet
Omnivore
Lifespan
up to 5 years
Group behavior
Keep in a school of 8+

Care requirements

Care level: Beginner.

Lifespan: up to 5 years.

Aquarium size and space needs

Minimum aquarium size: 21 US gal (80 L) or larger / ≥ 23.6" (≥ 60 cm) minimum length. Plan the layout and stocking within that limit.

Water parameters

Suitable water: temperature 23–27 °C, pH 6–8, GH 4–18 dGH.

Temperament and compatibility

X-ray Tetra is peaceful and suits calm community fish.

Keep in a school of 8+.

Swimming zone and behavior

This fish uses the middle part of the aquarium, so leave enough open swimming space for movement and feeding. Keep in a school of 8+.

Feeding

As an omnivore, X-ray Tetra should receive a varied diet rather than one repeated food type.

Before adding this fish

  • Plan for an aquarium of 21 US gal (80 L) or larger / ≥ 23.6" (≥ 60 cm) minimum length.
  • Make room for its social group.
  • Avoid aggressive or highly competitive fish.
  • Keep in a school of 8+.
  • Offer a varied diet that matches this species.

Natural habitat and origin

Origin: Guyana, Suriname, Venezuela.

Similar fish profiles

Use these profiles to compare fish with similar care level, size, temperature range, or swimming behavior.

Arowana Tetra Gnathocharax steindachneri Same family Similar care level Same temperament Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 2" (≤ 5 cm) 72–79°F (22–26°C) Black Arrow Royal Tetra Inpaichthys luizae Same family Similar care level Same temperament Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 2" (≤ 5 cm) 72–79°F (22–26°C) Black Heart Tetra Hyphessobrycon copelandi Same family Similar care level Same temperament Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 2" (≤ 5 cm) 75–82°F (24–28°C) Black Line Tetra Hyphessobrycon scholzei Same family Similar care level Same temperament Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 2" (≤ 5 cm) 72–81°F (22–27°C) Bleeding Blue Tetra Hyphessobrycon margitae Same family Similar care level Same temperament Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 2" (≤ 5 cm) 73–79°F (23–26°C) Black-belt Tetra Hemigrammus kuroobi Same family Similar care level Same temperament Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 2" (≤ 5 cm) 75–82°F (24–28°C)

FAQ

How large does X-ray Tetra get?

X-ray Tetra reaches ≤ 2" (≤ 5 cm).

What aquarium size does X-ray Tetra need?

Use an aquarium of at least 21 US gal (80 L) or larger / ≥ 23.6" (≥ 60 cm) minimum length.

Is X-ray Tetra peaceful?

Yes. X-ray Tetra is recorded as peaceful and is best planned with calm community fish that do not harass it or dominate the feeding area.

What temperature is suitable for X-ray Tetra?

Keep it between 23 to 27 °C.

Should X-ray Tetra be kept alone or in a group?

X-ray Tetra: Keep in a school of 8+.

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