Pristella X Ray Tetra, Pet City
Pristella X Ray Tetra, Pet City

Pristella X Ray Tetra

$5.99 NZD $3.99 NZD Save 33%
Tax included. Shipping calculated at checkout.

Live Fish

Quantity:: 1 x
  • DOA Cover*
  • Insulated Box & Heat Pads
Shipping & Returns

All live fish are shipped using NZPost overnight services with authority to leave (no signature).

We cannot guarantee the overnight services, this is a service that we/you pay for; but is not guaranteed.

We DO NOT offer returns on any alive animal.

Above are key points of our policy, Click Here to read our full shipping policy.
Dead On Arrival (DOA) Cover*
  • DOA must be reported within 2 hours of delivery.
  • Bags must remain sealed (do not remove rubber band or tape)
  • Photos & Videos must be supplied this can be emailed or sent through live chat; including your order No. (minimum 3 clear images, showing dead fish & sealed bag)
  • DOA does not apply once the bags are opened & fish have been released.
  • DOA does not apply to any Rural (RD) address.

Click Here for DOA Cover Policy
Introducing New Fish

Follow these steps to minimize stress and ensure a smooth transition for your new fish!

  1. Float the Bag: Place the sealed bag containing the new fish in the tank. This equalizes the temperature between bag and tank water.
  2. Open and Add Tank Water Gradually: After about 5 minutes, open the bag and add a small amount of aquarium water into it every 5 minutes for 15–30 minutes. This helps the fish acclimate to the tank’s water chemistry.
  3. Wait 15–30 Minutes: Let the fish adjust to the water temperature and chemistry gradually in the bag.
  4. Release Fish: Gently release the fish into the tank without pouring the original bag water in.
Quantity:

Pristella X Ray Tetra

Pristella Tetra is one of the more popular tetras in the hobby, and is easily obtainable from most aquatic shops. The Pristella Tetra has a natural tolerance to a wide range of water parameters. This characteristic makes the Pristella Tetra well suited for a variety of aquarium setups including the community aquarium. Unlike sensitive tetra species that need to be kept in soft water conditions, the hardy Pristella Tetra is an excellent choice for new aquarists.

Species Overview

  • Scientific Name: Pristella maxillaris

  • Common Names: X-Ray Tetra, Pristella Tetra, Golden Pristella Tetra, Goldfinch Tetra

  • Family: Characidae

  • Origin: Amazon and Orinoco River basins; coastal rivers in Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname, and northern Brazil

  • Size: Up to 2 inches (5 cm)

  • Lifespan: Approximately 4–5 years with proper care

  • Temperament: Peaceful and social; thrives in groups

  • Diet: Omnivorous – accepts flakes, pellets, and live/frozen foods like brine shrimp and daphni

Natural Habitat & Behavior

In the wild, X-Ray Tetras inhabit clear and blackwater streams with dense vegetation. They are schooling fish, preferring to swim in groups of six or more, which helps reduce stress and encourages natural behaviors. Their transparent bodies serve as camouflage in murky waters, and their distinctive fin coloration aids in group cohesion.

Aquarium Setup & Care

  • Tank Size: Minimum of 10 gallons; larger tanks are recommended for groups

  • Water Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)

  • pH Range: 6.0–8.0

  • Water Hardness: 4–18 dGH

  • Filtration: Moderate flow; ensure clean, well-oxygenated water

  • Substrate: Fine gravel or sand

  • Decor: Incorporate live plants, driftwood, and rocks to mimic natural habitat and provide hiding spots

  • Lighting: Moderate to subdued lighting

Diet & Feeding

X-Ray Tetras are omnivores and have a varied diet in the wild, consisting of small insects, crustaceans, and plant matter. In captivity, they readily accept:

  • High-quality flake or micro-pellet foods

  • Frozen or live foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms

  • Occasional vegetable matter, such as blanched spinach or zecchin

  • Feed small amounts 1–2 times daily, ensuring they consume the food within a few minutes to prevent overfeeding and water quality issues

Breeding

Breeding X-Ray Tetras in captivity is feasible with the right conditions

  • Breeding Tank: Set up a separate tank with soft, slightly acidic water and fine-leaved plants or spawning mops

  • Spawning: Introduce a conditioned male and female pair; spawning typically occurs in the early morning

  • Egg Care: After spawning, remove adults to prevent egg predation; eggs hatch in about 24 hours

  • Fry Care: Feed infusoria or commercially available fry foods until they are large enough to accept brine shrimp nauplii

Tank Mates

X-Ray Tetras are peaceful and do well in community tanks with other non-aggressive species. Suitable tank mates include

Other small tetras (e.g., Neon Tetras, Cardinal Tetras)

  • Rasboras

  • Corydoras catfish

  • Small gouramis

  • Livebearers like guppies and platies

Summary

The X-Ray Tetra is an excellent choice for both novice and experienced aquarists due to its hardiness, peaceful nature, and unique appearance. By providing a suitable environment and proper care, these tetras can thrive and add dynamic beauty to your freshwater aquarium.

Avoid housing them with larger, aggressive fish that may see them as prey.

*Product Photo is for reference only. Exact fish may vary in size and colour

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