GloFish Tetra
GloFish Tetra
Species: Gymnocorymbus ternetzi
Growth Form: Freshwater Schooling Fish
Coloration: Fluorescent colors including Electric Green®, Starfire Red®, Cosmic Blue®, Sunburst Orange®, and Moonrise Pink®
Temperament: Peaceful
Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons
Placement: Mid-water swimmer
Lighting: Low to Moderate
Flow: Low to Moderate
Diet: Omnivore
Feeding: Tropical flakes, micro pellets, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, and freeze-dried foods (1–2x daily)
Care Level: Easy
GloFish Tetra
Available for local pickup and shipping
Common Names
- GloFish Tetra
- Fluorescent Tetra
- Genetically Enhanced Black Skirt Tetra
Identification
- Scientific Name: Gymnocorymbus ternetzi
- Origin: Derived from the Black Skirt Tetra
- Adult Size: 2–2.5 inches (5–6 cm)
GloFish Tetras are colorful freshwater fish developed from the popular Black Skirt Tetra. They are available in a variety of vibrant fluorescent colors including Electric Green®, Sunburst Orange®, Cosmic Blue®, Moonrise Pink®, and Starfire Red®. Their bright appearance makes them a fun and eye-catching addition to community aquariums.
Behavior & Role in an Aquarium
GloFish Tetras are active schooling fish that occupy the middle levels of the aquarium. They are social and do best when kept in groups of at least five or more. Their peaceful nature and hardiness make them ideal for beginner aquarists and family aquariums.
Compatibility & Caution
- Peaceful community fish.
- Best kept in groups of 5–6 or more.
- May occasionally nip fins if kept in very small groups.
- Avoid housing with large aggressive fish.
- Provide open swimming areas along with plants and décor for security.
Care Level
Easy
Recommended Water Parameters
- Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)
- pH: 6.5–7.5
- Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard
- Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons
- Water Flow: Low to Moderate
GloFish Tetras are hardy fish that adapt well to a variety of aquarium conditions when provided with stable water quality and regular maintenance.
Diet
GloFish Tetras are omnivores and readily accept:
- Tropical flakes
- Small pellets
- Frozen bloodworms
- Brine shrimp
- Daphnia
- Freeze-dried foods
A varied diet will help maintain their health and activity levels.
Tank Mates
Suitable companions include:
- Other GloFish Tetras
- Neon Tetras
- Glowlight Tetras
- Harlequin Rasboras
- Corydoras Catfish
- Platies
- Mollies
- Dwarf Gouramis
- Peaceful shrimp and snails
Fun Fact
GloFish Tetras were originally developed for scientific research to detect environmental pollutants. Their striking fluorescent colors later made them one of the most recognizable and popular freshwater fish in the aquarium hobby.