Green Neon Tetra

The Green Neon Tetra is a tiny jewel of the aquarium world, smaller than its Cardinal and Neon cousins but equally beautiful. It displays a brilliant blue-green stripe that extends the full length of its body, with less red coloration than other tetras. Native to the upper Amazon and Orinoco basins, these delicate fish require soft, acidic water but reward the aquarist with stunning color and peaceful behavior. Their small size makes them perfect for nano tanks.

The Green Neon Tetra represents one of the most delicate and beautiful small tetras available.

These tiny fish pack incredible color into a package under one inch long.

Their brilliant blue-green stripe rivals the beauty of larger tetra species.

However, their specialized care requirements demand attention and commitment.

Origins and Natural History

Geographic Distribution

Green Neon Tetras originate from South America.

Their range includes the upper Amazon and Orinoco River basins.

They inhabit tributaries in Colombia, Venezuela, and Brazil.

Natural habitat characteristics:

• Blackwater streams and tributaries
• Areas with dense forest canopy
• Soft, acidic water from leaf litter
• Dimly lit environments
• Temperatures 75-82°F year-round

These fish thrive in some of the softest, most acidic waters in the Amazon.

Their natural habitat has minimal mineral content.

The dark, tea-colored water comes from decaying vegetation.

Wild Population Status

Most Green Neon Tetras in the aquarium trade are wild-caught.

This makes them more sensitive than captive-bred fish.

Wild collection pressures exist but populations remain stable.

Their small size and specific habitat limit collection.

Aquarists should buy from reputable sources.

Quarantine is essential due to wild-caught status.

Physical Characteristics

Body Structure and Size

Green Neon Tetras are exceptionally small fish.

Their tiny size requires special care considerations.

Adult dimensions:

• Standard length: 0.75-1 inch (2-2.5 cm)
• Body shape: Slender and streamlined
• Weight: Extremely lightweight

They are smaller than Neon Tetras and Cardinal Tetras.

This makes them vulnerable to predation.

Even small fish can eat them.

Brilliant Blue-Green Stripe

The signature stripe differentiates them from other tetras.

This feature gives them their common name.

Stripe characteristics:

• Color: Brilliant blue-green to turquoise
• Position: Runs full body length horizontally
• Intensity: Very bright under proper lighting
• Coverage: More extensive than red on Neons

The stripe extends from nose to tail.

It glows under aquarium lighting.

The color appears more green than blue.

This differs from the blue stripe on Neon Tetras.

Limited Red Coloration

Unlike Neon and Cardinal Tetras, Green Neons show minimal red.

Color distribution:

Some specimens show a faint red patch below the stripe.

Others display almost no red at all.

The blue-green stripe dominates their appearance.

This creates a different visual effect than red-and-blue tetras.

Sexual Dimorphism

Sexing Green Neon Tetras is extremely difficult.

General guidelines:

Females may appear slightly rounder.

Males might be slimmer and more streamlined.

Females could grow marginally larger.

These differences are nearly impossible to see.

Most aquarists cannot sex them reliably.

Breeding condition offers the only reliable method.

Tank Requirements and Setup

Aquarium Size Specifications

Green Neon Tetras need careful tank selection.

Their small size allows nano tanks.

However, water stability matters greatly.

Minimum requirements:

• Small school (10 fish): 10 gallons minimum
• Recommended school (15+ fish): 20 gallons
• Larger groups: 20+ gallons for stability

Tank stability considerations:

Larger tanks provide more stable water parameters.

Small tanks fluctuate more rapidly.

These sensitive fish need stability.

20 gallons offers better long-term success than 10 gallons.

Critical Water Flow Warning

WARNING: Green Neon Tetras cannot tolerate strong water flow.

Their tiny size makes them vulnerable in currents.

Flow requirements:

Gentle sponge filters work best.

Avoid hang-on-back filters with strong outputs.

Air-driven sponge filters provide filtration without flow.

Position any filter outputs away from swimming areas.

Signs of too much flow:

Fish struggle to swim against current.

They hide in corners away from flow.

Stressed behavior appears.

Death can result from exhaustion.

Substrate and Decoration

Dark substrates enhance their colors significantly.

Substrate options:

• Dark gravel: Essential for color enhancement
• Dark sand: Also effective
• Leaf litter: Mimics natural habitat

Essential decoration elements:

Dense planting is absolutely required.

These fish need security to display properly.

Recommended plants:

• Java Moss: Excellent cover, tolerates soft water
• Cryptocoryne: Dark leaves enhance colors
• Anubias: Hardy and secure
• Floating plants: Critical for diffusing light
• Leaf litter: Creates blackwater effect

Hiding spots:

Provide numerous hiding places.

Driftwood creates caves and cover.

Rock piles offer additional security.

Dense planting throughout the tank.

Lighting Requirements

Dim lighting is essential for Green Neon Tetras.

Critical lighting specifications:

• Very low to dim LED lighting
• 6-8 hours maximum photoperiod
• Floating plants mandatory for shade
• Dark areas throughout tank

Why dim light matters:

Their natural habitat has dense forest canopy.

Bright light stresses these fish severely.

Colors fade under intense illumination.

They hide constantly under bright lights.

Floating plants create necessary shade.

Driftwood tannins help darken water.

Water Parameters and Quality

Temperature Requirements

Green Neon Tetras need warm, stable temperatures.

Optimal temperature range: 75-82°F (24-28°C)

Temperature considerations:

They prefer the warmer end of tropical ranges.

Stability is absolutely critical.

Fluctuations of more than 1-2 degrees cause stress.

High-quality heaters are essential.

pH and Hardness - CRITICAL

Water chemistry requirements are strict.

CRITICAL WARNING: Green Neon Tetras require very soft, acidic water.

pH range: 5.0-6.5 (strongly acidic) Optimal pH: 5.5-6.0 Water hardness: Very soft (1-5 dGH)

Why soft water is mandatory:

Their natural habitat has almost no mineral content.

Hard water causes organ stress and shortened lifespans.

They cannot adapt to moderate or hard water.

Captive-bred specimens tolerate slightly more hardness.

Wild-caught fish require very soft conditions.

Adjusting water parameters:

Use reverse osmosis (RO) water for soft conditions.

Mix with tap water to achieve desired parameters.

Add driftwood and leaf litter to lower pH naturally.

Peat moss in filters helps acidify water.

Test parameters weekly to maintain stability.

Water Quality Standards

Pristine water is absolutely essential.

Essential parameters:

• Ammonia: 0 ppm (extremely sensitive)
• Nitrite: 0 ppm (lethal at any level)
• Nitrate: <10 ppm (lower than most fish)

Maintenance schedule:

• Weekly water changes: 20-25% maximum
• Small changes prevent parameter swings
• Use aged, conditioned replacement water
• Match temperature exactly
• Match pH within 0.1 units

Filtration for water quality:

Sponge filters provide biological filtration.

Gentle flow prevents stress.

Over-filtration with strong flow kills these fish.

Balance filtration capacity with gentle output.

Feeding and Nutrition

Tiny Food Requirements

Green Neon Tetras have extremely small mouths.

Standard fish food is too large for them.

Appropriate food sizes:

• Crushed flake food: Crush to fine powder
• Micro pellets: Specifically small formulations
• Powdered fry food: Excellent staple
• Infusoria: For newly acquired or young fish

Protein foods:

• Baby brine shrimp: Ideal size
• Microworms: Perfect for tiny mouths
• Vinegar eels: Excellent nutrition
• Frozen cyclops: Thaw and strain

Feeding schedule:

Offer food 3-4 times daily in tiny amounts.

Their small stomachs need frequent small meals.

Feed only what they consume in 1-2 minutes.

Remove any uneaten food immediately.

Feeding Challenges

Their size creates unique feeding challenges.

Common problems:

Competition from larger fish leaves them starving.

Food particles are often too big to eat.

Slow eating means they miss opportunities.

Solutions:

Target feed with a pipette or turkey baster.

Crush all food to powder consistency.

Feed before other fish get excited.

Use feeding rings to concentrate food.

Nutritional Requirements

Quality nutrition supports their delicate health.

Staple foods:

High-quality crushed flakes provide basics.

Spirulina powder supports immune function.

Color-enhancing foods intensify their blue-green stripe.

Variety is essential:

Rotate between 3-4 different food types.

Live foods condition them for breeding.

Frozen foods add nutritional variety.

Powdered foods ensure they get enough nutrition.

Behavior and Social Structure

Schooling Requirements

Schooling is absolutely essential for Green Neon Tetras.

Small groups cause extreme stress.

Schooling requirements:

• Absolute minimum: 10 fish
• Recommended minimum: 15-20 fish
• Optimal group size: 20+ fish

Why large schools matter:

Small groups experience constant stress.

They hide and refuse to display colors.

Large schools provide security for natural behavior.

Their tiny size means they need more fish for confidence.

Activity Patterns

Green Neon Tetras maintain moderate activity.

They are not as hyperactive as some small fish.

Daily behavior:

Morning brings cautious foraging.

Midday sees them hovering in plants.

Evening activity increases slightly.

Night finds them hiding in dense cover.

Swimming behavior:

They prefer dim areas with plant cover.

Bright light causes immediate hiding.

They swim in loose groups rather than tight schools.

Quick darting movements occur when startled.

Peaceful but Vulnerable

Green Neon Tetras are completely peaceful.

However, their small size makes them extremely vulnerable.

Compatible with:

• Other tiny peaceful fish
• Small rasboras (Chili, Phoenix)
• Pygmy Corydoras
• Shrimp
• Very small tetras

Critical vulnerability:

Any fish over 2 inches can eat them.

Even “peaceful” fish may snack on them.

Their tiny size makes them expensive live food.

Tank Mate Compatibility

Ideal Companions

Tank mate selection requires extreme care.

Excellent companions:

Chili Rasboras: Similar size and temperament.

Share water parameter requirements.

Create stunning nano tank displays.

Phoenix Rasboras: Another tiny rasbora species.

Peaceful and comparably sized.

Compatible water needs.

Pygmy Corydoras: Miniature catfish.

Peaceful bottom dwellers.

Same small food requirements.

Cherry Shrimp: Adult shrimp are safe.

They share peaceful temperaments.

Both need similar water conditions.

Ember Tetras: Small, peaceful tetras.

Slightly larger but usually safe.

Share community tank requirements.

Tank Mates to NEVER House With

CRITICAL WARNING: Many common fish will eat Green Neon Tetras.

Absolutely avoid:

Bettas: Will eat them despite small Betta size.

Green Neons are the perfect snack size.

Angelfish: View them as live food.

Even small Angelfish will hunt them.

Gouramis: Most species will eat them.

Dwarf Gouramis may be safe but risky.

Neon Tetras and Cardinal Tetras: Surprisingly risky.

These larger tetras may bully or eat them.

Corydoras (standard size): Too large and active.

May stress them or compete for food.

Any fish over 2 inches: Can eat them.

This eliminates most community fish.

Dedicated Nano Tank Strategy

Green Neon Tetras work best in species-only nano tanks.

Recommended setup:

20-gallon tank with 20-30 Green Neons.

Add 10-15 Chili Rasboras.

Include Pygmy Corydoras if desired.

Dense planting throughout.

Driftwood and leaf litter.

Very gentle filtration.

Dim lighting with floating plants.

This creates a stunning, peaceful display.

Mixed community tanks usually fail.

Health and Disease Management

Common Health Issues

Green Neon Tetras are delicate and prone to health problems.

Neon Tetra Disease (NTD): Primary concern.

Caused by Pleistophora hyphessobryconis parasite.

Symptoms include:

• Loss of coloration
• Difficulty swimming
• Curved spine in advanced cases
• Lethargy and isolation

Unfortunately, there is no cure for NTD.

Infected fish must be removed immediately.

Euthanasia prevents spread to other fish.

Quarantine new fish to prevent introduction.

Ich (White Spot Disease):

Appears as white salt-like spots.

Caused by stress or temperature fluctuations.

Treatment must use half-strength medication.

These fish are sensitive to chemicals.

Fin rot:

Bacterial infection from poor water quality.

Requires immediate water changes.

Antibiotics at reduced dosage.

General stress-related illness:

These fish die from stress easily.

Poor water quality kills them rapidly.

Incompatible tank mates stress them to death.

Bright lighting causes immune suppression.

Preventive Health Care

Prevention is absolutely essential with these delicate fish.

Quarantine protocols:

Quarantine new fish for 3-4 weeks minimum.

Wild-caught specimens need extended quarantine.

Watch for signs of NTD during this period.

Never add fish directly to main tanks.

Water quality management:

Maintain pristine conditions at all times.

Test parameters twice weekly.

Small, frequent water changes.

Never skip scheduled maintenance.

Stress reduction:

Keep in large schools (15+ fish).

Provide dense plant cover.

Use dim lighting only.

Ensure gentle water flow.

Never house with incompatible species.

Treatment Best Practices

When illness occurs, immediate action is critical.

Hospital tanks:

Move sick fish immediately.

Prevents disease spread.

Allows targeted treatment.

Medication warnings:

These fish are extremely sensitive to medications.

Use quarter to half-strength doses.

Remove carbon from filters during treatment.

Many medications kill them at normal doses.

Salt treatments:

Aquarium salt helps with external parasites.

Use very conservatively.

1 teaspoon per 10 gallons maximum.

Never use table salt.

Euthanasia for NTD:

Infected fish must be euthanized.

NTD has no cure and spreads rapidly.

Clove oil method is humane.

Prevents suffering and protects other fish.

Comparison to Similar Species

Green Neon Tetra vs. Neon Tetra

These are frequently confused species.

Key differences:

Green Neons are smaller (0.75-1 inch vs 1-1.5 inches).

Green Neons show less red coloration.

The stripe appears more green than blue.

Green Neons are more delicate and demanding.

Neon Tetras are hardier and more adaptable.

Neons tolerate wider water parameters.

Green Neons require very soft, acidic water.

Both are peaceful schooling fish.

Neons suit beginners better.

Green Neons are for experienced aquarists.

Green Neon Tetra vs. Cardinal Tetra

Cardinal Tetras (Paracheirodon axelrodi) are larger relatives.

Comparison:

Cardinals grow larger (1.5-2 inches).

Cardinals show more extensive red coloration.

Green Neons have the blue-green stripe only.

Cardinals are slightly hardier than Green Neons.

Both require soft, acidic water.

Cardinals are less demanding than Green Neons.

Green Neons are more delicate overall.

Cardinals suit intermediate aquarists.

Green Neons require advanced care.

Green Neon Tetra vs. Chili Rasbora

Chili Rasboras (Boraras brigittae) share nano tank suitability.

Key similarities and differences:

Both are tiny (under 1 inch).

Both need soft, acidic water.

Both require gentle flow and dim light.

Chili Rasboras show red coloration.

Green Neons display blue-green.

Both are peaceful and schooling.

They make excellent tank mates.

Combined, they create stunning nano displays.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Green Neon Tetras good beginner fish?

No, Green Neon Tetras are not beginner fish.

They require very soft, acidic water.

Most beginners lack the necessary water conditions.

They are more delicate than Neon Tetras.

Intermediate to advanced aquarists succeed better.

Beginners should start with hardier species.

Why are my Green Neon Tetras dying?

Several factors commonly cause deaths:

Hard water is the most common killer.

Incompatible tank mates eat or stress them.

Poor water quality destroys their health.

Strong water flow exhausts them.

Bright lighting causes chronic stress.

Small schools make them insecure.

Check all these factors immediately.

Can Green Neon Tetras live with Neon Tetras?

Housing them together is risky.

Neon Tetras are larger and more aggressive.

Neons may bully or eat Green Neons.

Different water requirements cause issues.

Green Neons need softer, more acidic water.

Keep them separate for best results.

How many Green Neon Tetras should I keep?

Keep large schools for their security.

Minimum of 10-15 fish.

Optimal groups contain 20+ fish.

Larger schools display better behavior.

Small groups experience extreme stress.

They will hide and fade in color.

What temperature do Green Neon Tetras need?

They require 75-82°F (24-28°C).

This is warmer than many community fish.

Stability matters more than exact temperature.

Use high-quality heaters.

Avoid fluctuations over 1-2 degrees.

How big do Green Neon Tetras get?

Adults reach only 0.75-1 inch (2-2.5 cm).

They are among the smallest tetras available.

This tiny size creates vulnerability.

Even small fish can eat them.

Choose tank mates extremely carefully.

Do Green Neon Tetras need soft water?

Yes, soft water is absolutely mandatory.

They require 1-5 dGH hardness.

pH must be 5.0-6.5.

Hard water causes organ stress and death.

Most tap water is too hard for them.

Use RO water or rainwater.

Can Green Neon Tetras live in a 5-gallon tank?

A 5-gallon tank is completely inadequate.

Minimum is 10 gallons for a small school.

20 gallons provides better stability.

Small tanks fluctuate too rapidly.

These sensitive fish need stable conditions.

Are Green Neon Tetras wild-caught?

Most specimens are wild-caught.

This makes them more sensitive.

Quarantine is absolutely essential.

Buy from reputable dealers.

Captive breeding is increasing but rare.

Do Green Neon Tetras need plants?

Dense planting is absolutely essential.

They require security to display properly.

Plants provide hiding spots.

Floating plants diffuse bright light.

Java Moss, Cryptocoryne, and Anubias work well.

Never keep them in bare tanks.

Can Green Neon Tetras breed in aquariums?

Breeding is extremely challenging.

They require very soft, acidic water.

Specific triggers are needed.

Most aquarists do not succeed.

Commercial breeding is limited.

Leave breeding to experienced specialists.

Do Green Neon Tetras jump?

They occasionally jump when startled.

Secure lids are recommended.

However, they prefer staying near plants.

Jumping is less common than with active swimmers.

Still, use covers to be safe.

How can I enhance their blue-green stripe?

Excellent water quality brings out colors.

Dark substrates create contrast.

Color-enhancing foods help.

Dim lighting displays their glow best.

Stress reduction allows full color.

Can Green Neon Tetras live with shrimp?

Adult Green Neons coexist well with shrimp.

Cherry Shrimp and Amano Shrimp are safe.

They are too small to eat adult shrimp.

However, they may eat tiny baby shrimp.

Provide moss for shrimp breeding.

Do Green Neon Tetras need a heater?

Yes, absolutely.

They need tropical temperatures 75-82°F.

Room temperature is too cold.

High-quality, reliable heaters are essential.

Temperature stability is critical.

How long do Green Neon Tetras live?

With perfect care, they live 2-4 years.

Many die within months due to poor conditions.

Hard water shortens lifespans dramatically.

Soft, acidic water supports maximum longevity.

Their short life is offset by their beauty.

Why are my Green Neon Tetras hiding?

Hiding indicates serious problems.

Check water parameters immediately.

Likely causes include:

• Bright lighting
• Strong water flow
• Incompatible tank mates
• Poor water quality
• Small school size

Address all these factors.

Can Green Neon Tetras live with Bettas?

Never house them with Bettas.

Bettas will eat them immediately.

They are the perfect size for Betta snacks.

Even “peaceful” Bettas hunt them.

Choose different tank mates.

What is the best food for Green Neon Tetras?

Tiny, powdered foods work best.

Crush flakes to powder.

Use micro pellets.

Feed baby brine shrimp.

Offer infusoria for conditioning.

Feed 3-4 times daily in tiny amounts.

Are Green Neon Tetras sensitive to medications?

They are extremely sensitive to chemicals.

Use quarter to half-strength doses.

Many medications kill them at normal doses.

Salt treatments must be very weak.

Always treat in hospital tanks.

Do Green Neon Tetras need a filter?

Gentle filtration is essential.

However, strong filters stress them.

Sponge filters work best.

Air-driven filters provide gentle flow.

Avoid hang-on-back filters with strong outputs.

Biological filtration is important.

Mechanical filtration should be gentle.

Can Green Neon Tetras live with ember tetras?

Ember Tetras are possible tank mates.

Both are small and peaceful.

They share some water requirements.

However, Embers prefer slightly harder water.

Monitor compatibility carefully.

Provide dense planting for security.

What is the best light for Green Neon Tetras?

Very dim lighting is essential.

LED lights on lowest settings work.

Floating plants are mandatory.

They create shade and security.

Avoid bright lights completely.

Their colors show best in dim conditions.

Do Green Neon Tetras need driftwood?

Driftwood is highly beneficial.

It creates hiding spots and security.

It helps lower pH naturally.

Tannins darken water appropriately.

Biofilm provides supplemental food.

It makes them feel secure.

Include driftwood in their tanks.

Can Green Neon Tetras live with pygmy corydoras?

Pygmy Corydoras make excellent tank mates.

Both are tiny and peaceful.

They share water parameter needs.

Both need soft, acidic water.

Pygmy Cories stay under 1 inch.

No predation risk exists.

They occupy different tank zones.

The combination works perfectly.

Why are my Green Neon Tetras at the top of the tank?

Surface hanging indicates oxygen problems.

Check water parameters immediately.

Ammonia or nitrite spikes cause this.

Low oxygen levels force them up.

Increase aeration if needed.

Perform water changes promptly.

This behavior signals serious trouble.

Do Green Neon Tetras need CO2 injection?

CO2 injection is not required.

They do not need heavily planted tanks.

Standard low-tech setups work fine.

Focus on soft, acidic water instead.

CO2 is optional for this species.

Can Green Neon Tetras live in a community tank?

Community tanks usually fail.

Most community fish are too large.

Even peaceful fish eat them.

They need species-only or nano setups.

Careful tank mate selection is critical.

Choose only the smallest, most peaceful fish.

What pH is best for Green Neon Tetras?

pH 5.5-6.0 is optimal.

They can tolerate 5.0-6.5.

Never keep them above pH 7.0.

Acidic water is mandatory.

Test pH regularly.

Adjust gradually if needed.

Do Green Neon Tetras change color?

Their colors fade when stressed.

Poor water causes immediate fading.

Bright light washes out their glow.

Excellent conditions bring out brilliance.

The blue-green stripe should glow.

Faded color indicates problems.

Can Green Neon Tetras live with otocinclus?

Otocinclus catfish are possible companions.

Both are small and peaceful.

However, Otos need established algae.

Green Neons need soft, acidic water.

Otos prefer slightly different conditions.

The match is not perfect.

Choose Pygmy Cories instead.

Are Green Neon Tetras worth the effort?

Their beauty justifies the challenge.

The glowing blue-green stripe is stunning.

They create ethereal displays.

Experienced aquarists find them rewarding.

Beginners should gain experience first.

They are not for everyone.

But they are unmatched in beauty.

Do Green Neon Tetras need a blackwater setup?

Blackwater conditions are ideal.

Dark, tea-colored water mimics their habitat.

Leaf litter creates this effect.

Driftwood tannins help.

Peat moss in filters works.

However, clear soft water also works.

Blackwater is beneficial but optional.

What size school for Green Neon Tetras?

Keep 20 or more for best results.

Larger schools provide security.

Fish display natural behaviors.

Colors show better in groups.

Small schools hide constantly.

Invest in large numbers.

Can Green Neon Tetras live with shrimp?

Adult shrimp are generally safe.

Cherry Shrimp and Amano Shrimp work.

The tetras are too small to eat them.

However, baby shrimp may be eaten.

Provide moss for shrimp breeding.

Monitor interactions carefully.

Do Green Neon Tetras need frozen food?

Frozen food is beneficial but not mandatory.

Baby brine shrimp stimulate color.

Frozen cyclops provides nutrition.

However, crushed flakes work as staples.

Rotate frozen foods for variety.

Are Green Neon Tetras annual fish?

No, they are not annual fish.

They live 2-4 years with good care.

Annual fish die after one year naturally.

Green Neons can live longer.

Their short lifespan is from sensitivity.

Not from being annual breeders.

What is the biggest mistake with Green Neon Tetras?

Keeping them in hard water is the worst error.

This kills them slowly.

Second worst is incompatible tank mates.

Third is bright lighting.

Learn their needs before buying.

Provide soft, acidic water always.

Conclusion

Green Neon Tetras represent the pinnacle of beauty in miniature fish.

Their brilliant blue-green stripe creates stunning visual impact.

However, their specialized care requirements demand commitment.

These are not fish for casual keeping.

Success requires very soft, acidic water.

Large schools provide necessary security.

Dim lighting and gentle flow are mandatory.

Compatible tank mates must be chosen with extreme care.

Their 2-4 year lifespan is shorter than larger tetras.

Yet their beauty justifies the effort for dedicated aquarists.

Wild-caught status means quarantine is essential.

Sensitivity to medications requires careful treatment.

For experienced aquarists with appropriate water conditions, Green Neon Tetras offer unmatched beauty in a tiny package.

Their glow in dimly lit, heavily planted tanks creates an ethereal effect.

When kept properly, they rank among the most beautiful aquarium fish available.

Beginners should gain experience with hardier species first.

Intermediate aquarists ready for a challenge will find them rewarding.

Proper care brings out their maximum potential.

These tiny jewels deserve the best conditions aquarists can provide.