The GloFish Pristella Tetra showcases stunning fluorescent colors that glow under blue LED lighting, making it a visually striking addition to any aquarium. These vibrant hues are a result of the insertion of genes from sea anemones and other organisms into their DNA.
In terms of appearance, the GloFish Pristella Tetra features translucent bodies with a silver or yellowish hue, complemented by striking neon red, green, orange, or yellow stripes running along their sides. These colors intensify under optimal lighting conditions, creating an eye-catching display in any aquatic setting.
These tetras have a lifespan of 4-5 years and are relatively small in size, typically reaching around two inches in length when fully grown. They are also a peaceful schooling fish and do best when kept in groups of 6 or more.
Tank Set Up
Due to these fish being schooling fish and very active swimmers the bare minimum recommended tank size is 10 gallons, although bigger is always better. Pristellas prefer a tank with softer more acidic to neutral water with a pH from 6-7.5. These tetras do very well in a wide range of temperatures from 65°-80°F, but are most active in temperatures ranging from 75°-78°F.
Pristellas do not care for bright lights and prefer a darker gravel with a few hiding places and plants to make them feel more secure. They are a mid dwelling fish and still need plenty of space for swimming so you would not want to make the tank too densely planted.
When considering filtration for your tetras, these fish prefer slower moving waters, so sponge filters or other methods of low flow filtration tend to be favored amongst fish keepers.
Tank Mates
When it comes to choosing tank mates for Pristella Tetras, it is important to consider their compatibility and the overall well-being of your aquarium. Pristella Tetras are peaceful and social fish that can thrive in a community tank setting.
To ensure a harmonious environment, it is recommended to select tank mates that share similar water parameter requirements and temperament. These fish are also known to nip at fish with longer fins, so you will want to avoid tank mates such as bettas or angelfish.
Some examples of ideal tank mates for these fish are neon tetras, Corydoras, or harlequin rasboras.
And of course, as these fish only get to be 2 inches in size, you will want to avoid placing any large fish with them, because if it fits in a fish’s mouth, it’s food.
Diet
In the wild, Pristella Tetras primarily feed on small insects, worms, crustaceans, and plant matter. In an aquarium setting, their diet should consist of a combination of dry and live or frozen foods to mimic their natural feeding habits.
As they are not known for being picky eaters, they will readily accept small foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, and blanched vegetables, along with a high-quality tropical pellet or flake food.
Breeding
The GloFish pristella tetra will reach maturity at between 5-8 months of age and are an egg scattering species. Males tend to have a more streamlined and slender body shape compared to females, who may appear slightly rounder or plumper.
Contrary to belief, GloFish are not sterile and can breed. While you may breed them in your home aquarium, there is a patent on them, so you will not be able to legally sell the offspring.