Reed Tetra
Pickup available at Napier
Usually ready in 4 hours
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.
Introducing New Fish
Follow these steps to minimize stress and ensure a smooth transition for your new fish!
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Float the Bag: Place the sealed bag containing the new fish in the tank. This equalizes the temperature between bag and tank water.
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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.
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Wait 15–30 Minutes: Let the fish adjust to the water temperature and chemistry gradually in the bag.
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Release Fish: Gently release the fish into the tank without pouring the original bag water in.
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The Reed Tetra is a small and peaceful schooling fish appreciated for its subtle beauty, gentle nature, and suitability for planted community aquariums. Its slender body, soft silver colouring, and delicate finnage make it an excellent choice for natural aquascapes where its calm behaviour and shoaling instincts can truly shine.
Although not as brightly coloured as some tetra species, Reed Tetras display attractive iridescent tones and elegant swimming behaviour when kept in groups. They are hardy and adaptable once established, making them suitable for both beginner and experienced aquarists looking to create a tranquil freshwater aquarium.
Physical Characteristics:
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Adult Size:
Approximately 3–4cm -
Body Shape:
Slim, elongated tetra body shape -
Colouration:
Silver to translucent body with subtle reflective tones and delicate finnage -
Sexual Dimorphism:
Females are typically slightly fuller-bodied, especially when mature -
Lifespan:
Approximately 3–5 years
Behaviour & Temperament:
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Temperament:
Peaceful and shy -
Swimming Level:
Middle levels -
Social Behaviour:
A schooling species that feels safest and displays best behaviour in groups. -
Recommended Group Size:
Minimum of 6–10 individuals recommended
Aquarium Requirements:
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Minimum Tank Size:
60 litres recommended -
Water Temperature:
22–27°C -
pH Range:
6.0–7.5 -
Water Hardness:
Soft to moderately hard water preferred -
Water Flow:
Gentle to moderate -
Substrate:
Dark gravel or sand enhances natural colouration -
Aquascape:
Planted aquarium with driftwood, shaded areas, and open swimming space -
Lighting:
Low to moderate lighting preferred
Feeding:
Reed Tetras are omnivorous and accept a wide range of quality aquarium foods.
Suitable Foods
- Quality micro pellets
- Crushed tropical flakes
- Baby brine shrimp
- Daphnia
- Frozen cyclops
- Small live foods
Feeding Frequency
Feed 1–2 times daily in small portions.
Compatibility:
Suitable Tank Mates
- Other peaceful tetras
- Corydoras catfish
- Rasboras
- Small peaceful gouramis
- Dwarf shrimp
Avoid Housing With
- Large aggressive fish
- Fin nippers
- Predatory species
Breeding:
Spawning Type:
Egg scatterer
Difficulty:
Moderate
Notes:
Best bred in soft, slightly acidic water with fine-leaved plants or spawning mops. Adults may consume eggs if left in the breeding tank.
Special Considerations:
- Best colour and confidence shown in larger schools
- Dense planting helps reduce stress
- Sensitive to poor water quality and sudden changes
- Excellent choice for peaceful planted aquariums and nano communities
Product Photo is for reference only. Exact fish may vary in size and colour.
