Pristella Glow Tetras
Pristella Glow Tetras
Scientific Name: Pristella maxillaris
Common Name: Pristella Glow, Glow Tetra
Origin: South AmericaTemperament: Peaceful, schooling
Reef Safe: Freshwater only
Tank Size: 10+ gallonsColoration: Transparent to silvery body with glowing yellow fins and black accents; shimmering iridescent glow.
Placement: Middle to upper swimming levels with plants or décor for hiding
Lighting: Moderate
Flow: GentleDiet: Omnivorous — flake, micro pellets, frozen or live foods (brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms)
Feeding: 1–2 times dailySpecial Notes:
Best kept in groups of 6+ for schooling and visual appeal.
Shimmering glow is enhanced under aquarium lighting.Care Level: Easy
Pristella Glow Tetra
Scientific Name: Pristella maxillaris
Common Names: Pristella Glow, Glow Tetra, X-ray Glow Tetra
Overview
The Pristella Glow Tetra is a vibrant, small freshwater fish prized for its semi-transparent body with iridescent highlights and glowing yellow fins. Its striking colors, peaceful temperament, and schooling behavior make it a perfect choice for community aquariums. This variety is a colorful twist on the classic Pristella Tetra, adding extra brightness and visual appeal.
Size & Appearance
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Adult Size: 1–1.5 inches
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Coloration: Transparent to silvery body with glowing yellow fins and black accents on the dorsal and tail fins
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Distinct Features: Iridescent sheen that seems to “glow” under aquarium lighting, giving a shimmering effect in schools
Temperament & Compatibility
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Temperament: Peaceful, social, schooling fish
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Behavior: Active and graceful swimmers; best kept in groups of 6 or more
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Tank Mates: Ideal for community tanks with other small, peaceful fish such as guppies, neon tetras, rasboras, and dwarf corydoras
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Reef Compatibility: Freshwater only
Tank Requirements
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Minimum Tank Size: 10+ gallons
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Tank Setup: Planted tanks with open swimming areas; includes hiding spots with décor or floating plants
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Preferred Zone: Middle to upper levels of the tank
Lighting & Flow
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Lighting: Moderate; lighting enhances the glowing effect of the fins
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Water Flow: Gentle, mimicking slow-moving rivers and streams
Diet & Feeding
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Diet: Omnivorous
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Foods:
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Flake foods
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Micro pellets
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Frozen or live foods (brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms)
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Feeding Frequency: 1–2 times daily; feed small portions to avoid overfeeding
Water Parameters (Recommended)
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Temperature: 22–28°C (72–82°F)
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pH: 6.5–7.5
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Hardness: 5–12 dGH
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Stability: Hardy and adaptable; prefers stable, clean water
Care Level
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Care Level: Easy
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Best For: Beginner freshwater aquarists, community tanks, and colorful schooling displays
Fun Fact
The Pristella Glow Tetra gets its name from the shimmering, iridescent glow of its fins, which becomes even more noticeable when kept in groups — a living aquarium light show!

