Diamond Tetra

The Diamond Tetra gets its name from the brilliant, diamond-like iridescence that covers its body, especially pronounced on the dorsal and anal fins. Native to Lake Valencia in Venezuela, these peaceful, hardy tetras are excellent community fish. Unlike many tetras that show best color only at maturity, Diamond Tetras are attractive at all ages. They are peaceful, active swimmers that do well in planted community tanks and should be kept in schools of 6 or more.

Care Requirements

Tank Setup

Diamond Tetras are adaptable but thrive in planted tanks.

Essential Setup:

• 20+ gallons
• Plants for security
• Moderate lighting
• Open swimming space

Water Quality

• Temperature: 72-80°F (22-27°C)
• pH: 6.0-7.5
• Water Hardness: Soft to moderate (3-12 dGH)
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: <20 ppm

Feeding

Easy to feed omnivores:

• Quality flakes or small pellets
• Frozen foods
• Live foods for conditioning

Behavior & Compatibility

Peaceful community fish:

• Schooling: Keep 6+ for best display
• Active swimmers: Middle to upper tank
• Peaceful: Good with most community fish

Good Tank Mates:

• Cardinal Tetras
• Harlequin Rasboras
• Dwarf Gourami
• Corydoras

Color Development

• Best color with quality food
• Males more colorful than females
• Diamond iridescence more pronounced in good lighting
• Dark substrate enhances colors

Breeding

Moderately easy to breed:

• Soft, acidic water
• Spawning mop or plants
• Remove adults after spawning
• Feed fry infusoria then baby brine shrimp