Origins and Classification
• Scientific Name: Paracheirodon innesi
• Family: Characidae (Tetras)
• Origin: Blackwater and clearwater streams in the Amazon Basin (Peru, Brazil, Colombia).
• Popularity: Among the top community fish worldwide due to their size, beauty, and peaceful nature.
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🎨 Appearance
• Body Color:
• Iridescent blue stripe runs horizontally from nose to adipose fin.
• Bright red stripe runs from the mid-body to the tail.
• Silver/white belly.
• Size: Small—typically 1–1.5 inches (3–4 cm).
• Lifespan: 3–5 years with proper care (sometimes longer in stable tanks).
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🏡 Tank Requirements
• Tank Size: 10+ gallons (best in schools of 6+, ideally 10–15).
• Water Parameters:
• Temperature: 70–81°F (21–27°C)
• pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic preferred)
• Soft to moderately hard water.
• Habitat Setup:
• Dim lighting (they come from shaded forest streams).
• Dark substrate and live plants help their colors pop.
• Provide hiding spots but also open swimming areas.
