Breeding neon tetras (also known as red-green tetras) requires simulating their native Amazon River basin environment. Here are the key steps and considerations:
I. Pre-breeding Preparation
Breeding Tank Setup
A tank of 30×20×20cm (approximately 7-19 liters) is recommended. The bottom should be lined with brown silk or cabomba as spawning substrates.
Water quality requirements: weakly acidic soft water (pH 5.6-6.8), hardness 1-3.5°dGH, and a constant water temperature of 25-26°C.
A gentle corner box filter is necessary. Avoid direct strong light; dark-colored paper can be used to shield the tank from light.
Selecting Breeding Fish
Choose sexually mature individuals aged 6-8 months. Females have swollen bellies, while males have vibrant colors and a slimmer body shape.
The ratio of females to males should be 1:1. Before breeding, keep them separately for 3-5 days and enhance their diet (with bloodworms, brine shrimp, etc.).
II. Breeding Process
Spawning Management
Introduce the breeding fish into the tank in the evening; spawning usually occurs at dawn the next day, with each female laying 120-300 eggs.
Immediately remove the breeding fish after spawning to prevent them from eating the eggs.
Hatching and Fry Care
Fertilized eggs hatch in 24-36 hours, and the fry start swimming and feeding after 3 days.
Initially, feed them infusoria or egg yolk water; after 7 days, transition to fine granular feed.
III. Key Considerations
Water Quality Stability: When changing water, adjust the pH and temperature slowly, avoiding fluctuations exceeding 1°C.
Environmental Control: Maintain a dark and quiet environment, and ensure sufficient dissolved oxygen during the hatching period.
Disease Prevention: Regularly remove unfertilized eggs (which turn white and moldy) to prevent water quality deterioration.
Successful cases show that the breeding success rate is higher in spring and autumn, and multiple attempts can be made throughout the year. For community tanks, it is recommended to choose gentle small fish such as cardinal tetras, ensuring that environmental parameters match.