Description

X-Ray Tetra:

A Comprehensive Aquarium Guide

X-ray tetra (Pristella maxillaris) is a peaceful and intriguing freshwater fish originating from the coastal rivers of South America. Also known as the Pristella Tetra, this species is a popular choice for aquarists due to its striking transparent body, which allows its skeletal structure and internal organs to be seen, hence its common name.

Key Characteristics

• Size: This is a small species, reaching a maximum adult length of around 4.5 cm (1.8 inches).
• Appearance: The most notable feature of the X-ray tetra is its semi-translucent body. It has a slightly amber tint and a silver stripe that runs along its body. The dorsal and anal fins are a beautiful yellow with a distinct black spot, and the caudal (tail) fin is often a vibrant red.
• Temperament: The X-ray tetra is a very peaceful and active shoaling fish. They are not known to be aggressive towards other species and are an ideal addition to a community tank.

Tank Requirements

Providing the right environment is vital for the health and well-being of these fish.

• Tank Size: A minimum tank size of 40 litres (10 gallons) is suitable for a small shoal. A larger tank will provide more space for them to shoal and is recommended for a larger group.
• Water Parameters: They are quite adaptable but will thrive in soft, slightly acidic water.
  • Temperature: $24-28°C$ ($75-82°F$)
  • pH: $6.0-7.5$
  • Hardness: $5-15$ dGH
• Tank Setup: They will feel most comfortable in a well-planted aquarium with plenty of hiding places, such as driftwood and rocks. A dark substrate and subdued lighting will help to bring out their colours and reduce stress. Ensure there is also open swimming space for them to shoal.

Diet

X-ray tetras are omnivores and will readily accept a variety of foods.

• Staple Diet: A high-quality flake or micro-pellet food should form the basis of their diet.
• Live/Frozen Foods: To ensure a balanced diet, supplement their meals with small live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, daphnia, and brine shrimp. This will provide essential nutrients and variety.

Behaviour and Tank Mates

As a shoaling species, they must be kept in a group to feel secure and display their natural behaviour.

• Social Structure: A shoal of at least 6-8 individuals is highly recommended. Keeping them in larger numbers will reduce stress and prevent them from becoming shy.
• Suitable Tank Mates: Their peaceful nature makes them compatible with a wide range of other small to medium-sized, peaceful fish. Suitable tank mates include:
  • Other small tetras (e.g., Neon Tetras, Black Skirt Tetras)
  • Corydoras catfish
  • Rasboras
  • Gouramis
  • Dwarf cichlids (e.g., German Blue Rams)

Breeding

Breeding X-ray tetras can be achieved in a separate breeding tank.

• Spawning: They are egg scatterers. A pair will scatter hundreds of tiny, adhesive eggs over fine-leaved plants or a spawning mop. The parents should be removed after spawning to prevent them from eating the eggs.
• Rearing the Fry: The eggs usually hatch within 24 hours. The fry are very small and will need to be fed infusoria or a liquid fry food for the first few days before they are large enough to eat newly hatched brine shrimp.