Here are common neon tetra species and their characteristics:
Neon Tetra (Paracheirodon innesi)
- Scientific Name: Paracheirodon innesi
- Features: Turquoise neon longitudinal stripe on the body side, bright red tail; 3–4 cm in length.
- Distribution: Upper tributaries of the Amazon River.
- Care Requirements: Slightly acidic soft water (pH 5.0–7.0), water temperature 20–26°C (68–79°F).
Cardinal Tetra (Paracheirodon axelrodi)
- Scientific Name: Paracheirodon axelrodi
- Features: Broader turquoise fluorescent stripe, red pigment covering most of the abdomen; 4–5 cm in length.
- Distribution: Slow-flowing rivers in Brazil and Colombia.
- Care Requirements: Acidic water (pH 4.0–6.0); requires animal-based foods to maintain color.
Green Neon Tetra (Paracheirodon simulans)
- Scientific Name: Paracheirodon simulans
- Features: Turquoise fluorescent stripe with a yellow-green tint, lighter red abdomen.
- Distribution: Negro River basin, Brazil.
- Care Notes: Sensitive to water quality fluctuations.
Black Neon Tetra (Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi)
- Scientific Name: Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi
- Features: Black-and-white stripes on the body side, red semicircular patch above the eyes.
- Distribution: Paraguay River basin.
- Care Advice: Should be kept in groups (at least 6 individuals).
Red Neon Tetra
- Alias: Glass Neon Tetra
- Features: Translucent body with red abdominal glow.
- Genus: Hemigrammus (halfline tetras).
Other Related Species:
- Rainbow Dragonfly Tetra (native to South America, rainbow-colored body).
- Diamond Red Neon Tetra (body shimmers with diamond-like luster).
Note: The genus Paracheirodon includes only three species: Neon Tetra, Cardinal Tetra, and Green Neon Tetra. Other "neon-like" species typically belong to different characin families with similar appearances.