Tetra Fish are small, active freshwater fish well-known for their vivid colors, calm nature, and mesmerizing schooling behavior. Originally native to the rivers and streams of South America and Africa, these fish have gained immense popularity among aquarium enthusiasts worldwide—and especially in the UAE, where they are favored for their peaceful temperament and adaptability to indoor aquariums.

At Sahara Exotics in Ajman, we offer a wide selection of healthy and vibrant Tetra Fish varieties, ideal for both first-time fishkeepers and seasoned aquarists. Whether you’re setting up a peaceful community tank in your home or office in Dubai, Sharjah, or Abu Dhabi, Tetras are a dependable and visually stunning choice.

Appearance and Popular Varieties

Tetra Fish come in a wide range of colors, patterns, and fin types, but most share a slender, torpedo-shaped body and grow up to 1.5 to 2 inches (3.5 to 5 cm) in length. Their small size and energetic swimming make them ideal for medium-sized community aquariums.

Popular Tetra species available at Sahara Exotics include:

• Neon Tetra – Featuring an iridescent blue stripe and red lower body, perfect for dimly lit aquariums.

• Cardinal Tetra – Similar to Neon but with more intense red coloring across the body.

• Glowlight Tetra – Orange-red reflective stripe over a translucent silver body.

• Black Skirt Tetra – Distinctive black fins and grey body, great for contrast in a colorful tank.

• Rummy Nose Tetra – Bright red nose with a silver body and zebra-striped tail.

These fish are best displayed in schools of 6 or more, which not only enhances their natural behavior but also reduces stress and encourages their most vibrant colors.

Water Conditions & Tank Requirements

Tetras are naturally suited to warm, soft, slightly acidic waters. In UAE indoor aquariums, their requirements are easy to meet with basic equipment:

• Water temperature: 23°C to 27°C

• pH level: 6.5 to 7.5

• Water hardness: Soft to moderately hard

• Tank size: Minimum 10 gallons, ideally 20+ for groups

They thrive in planted aquariums with subdued lighting, mimicking their natural shaded habitats. Additions like driftwood, live plants, and dark gravel or sand help create a comfortable, low-stress environment.

A gentle filter and stable water parameters are essential for their well-being. Avoid placing them with aggressive or fin-nipping tank mates, as Tetras are peaceful and prefer calm, harmonious communities.

Diet & Feeding

Tetra Fish are omnivores, and their diet should reflect this balance. A varied diet not only boosts health and immunity but also brings out their brilliant colors.

Feed them:

• High-quality flake food or micro pellets for daily nutrition

• Frozen or live treats such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia

• Plant-based foods like spirulina flakes or blanched vegetables (in small amounts)

Feed 1–2 times a day in small portions. Only provide as much as they can consume in 2–3 minutes to maintain good water quality and avoid overfeeding.

Breeding Tetras

Tetra Fish can be bred in a home aquarium, though it requires controlled conditions. Most species are egg scatterers, releasing eggs over fine plants or spawning mops. Breeding success increases in a separate tank with:

• Slightly acidic, soft water

• Live plants like Java moss

• Dim lighting

Once eggs are laid, remove the adults to prevent egg predation. Fry hatch within 24–36 hours and require microscopic food like infusoria or liquid fry food for the first few days.

Care and Longevity

With proper care, Tetras can live up to 5 years, providing long-term enjoyment. They are generally hardy but sensitive to sudden water changes and poor water quality. Perform regular partial water changes and monitor parameters closely. Quarantine new additions to prevent the spread of disease.

Common issues include white spot (ich) and fin rot, both of which can be managed with early detection and proper treatment.

At Sahara Exotics, we pride ourselves on offering well-acclimated, active, and disease-free Tetra Fish, suitable for UAE’s tropical aquarium conditions. Whether you’re looking to build a vibrant centerpiece aquarium or add schooling charm to your existing setup, Tetras are the perfect choice for both beauty and balance.

Additional information