X-Ray Tetra
Pristella maxillaris
Minimum Tank
10 Gallons
Adult Size
2 inches
Temperature
75-82°F (24-28°C)
pH Range
6.0-8.0
Lifespan
5 years
School Size
6+ fish
About X-Ray Tetra
The X-ray tetra, also called the pristella tetra, is a small, translucent fish from the coastal rivers of South America, primarily Venezuela, Guyana, and Brazil. Its nearly transparent body reveals its internal skeleton and swim bladder, giving it the X-ray common name. The dorsal and anal fins feature bold yellow, black, and white banding that provides a surprising splash of color on an otherwise subtle fish. X-ray tetras are found in both freshwater and slightly brackish habitats in the wild, making them unusually adaptable. They are peaceful, unassuming schoolers that add a unique, almost ethereal quality to community aquariums.
Care Requirements
Tank Setup
- • Minimum 10-gallon tank required
- • Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
- • pH: 6.0 - 8.0
- • Category: Tetra
Diet & Feeding
- • Diet type: Omnivore
- • Feed 1-2 times daily
- • Varied diet recommended
Tank Mate Compatibility
Compatible With
Avoid Keeping With
Care Tips
Expert Tips
X-ray tetras are extremely hardy and can tolerate a wide range of conditions, including slightly brackish water. Keep them in schools of at least six at 75-82°F in neutral to slightly alkaline water. They are one of the most peaceful tetra species and mix well with virtually any small, non-aggressive community fish. Their translucent bodies look most striking against a dark background with moderate lighting. Feed standard flake food supplemented with small frozen or live foods. X-ray tetras are excellent fish for beginners and make reliable, long-lived community residents with a lifespan of 4-5 years.
Quick Facts
38L
Min Tank (10gal)
5cm
Adult Size (2")
5yr
Lifespan
6+
Min School
Build Your Perfect Community Tank
Find compatible tankmates for your X-Ray Tetra
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Tank Mates for X-Ray Tetra
Species from our database with overlapping water parameters, compatible temperaments and a realistic shared tank size.
Sterbai Corydoras
Corydoras sterbai
easy · 15+ gal
Julii Corydoras
Corydoras julii
easy · 15+ gal
Harlequin Rasbora
Trigonostigma heteromorpha
easy · 10+ gal
Endler's Livebearer
Poecilia wingei
easy · 10+ gal
Similar Care Level
Other easy-care species that suit a comparable setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size tank does a X-Ray Tetra need?
A X-Ray Tetra needs a minimum tank size of 10 gallons (38 litres). They should be kept in schools of at least 6.
What water parameters does a X-Ray Tetra need?
X-Ray Tetra thrive in water between 75-82°F (24-28°C) with a pH of 6.0-8.0.
Are X-Ray Tetra easy to care for?
X-Ray Tetra are considered easy to care for. They are peaceful fish with a lifespan of about 5 years.
How big do X-Ray Tetra get and what do they eat?
X-Ray Tetra reach about 2 inches and are omnivores. X-ray tetras are extremely hardy and can tolerate a wide range of conditions, including slightly brackish water. Keep them in schools of at least six at 75-82°F in neutral to slightly alkaline water. They are one of the most peaceful tetra species and mix well with virtually any small, non-aggressive community fish. Their translucent bodies look most striking against a dark background with moderate lighting. Feed standard flake food supplemented with small frozen or live foods. X-ray tetras are excellent fish for beginners and make reliable, long-lived community residents with a lifespan of 4-5 years.