Description
Max 2-2.5 inches. Silver body with strong iridescent sparkle, long flowing fins on mature males.
From Lake Valencia, Venezuela — introduced to aquarium trade decades ago.
Tank Setup
30 gallons minimum for a school of 6-8. Planted tank with dark substrate maximizes sparkle.
Soft to medium water (pH 6.0-7.5, GH 5-12). Temperature 75-82°F.
Diet
Omnivore. Flake, pellets, frozen foods, occasional live bloodworms for color.
Overfeeding causes bloat. Feed lightly, skip days.
Development
Juvenile diamond tetras look ordinary. Full color develops by month 8-12.
Mature males have long dorsal and anal fins. Females stay plainer.