Image 1 of 1
Image 1 of 1
Image 1 of 1
Image 1 of 1
The Pristella Tetra (Pristella maxillaris), also known as the X-Ray Tetra, is a powerhouse addition to any freshwater community or planted aquarium, blending high-impact aesthetics with essential utility. Featuring a unique translucent body that reveals its internal structure, accented by striking black, yellow, and white banded fins, this active schooler is a master of the "dither fish" era of fish keeping—serving as a natural biological indicator of a stable environment. It is a dedicated middle-water dweller, making it a functional cornerstone of a healthy freshwater ecosystem.
This hardy characin thrives in established systems with plenty of swimming space and soft-to-medium hard water. While generally peaceful and plant-safe, its social nature means it is best kept in schools of six or more to ensure it feels secure and displays its coordinated, shimmering movements. To ensure long-term health, provide a varied diet of high-quality flakes, micro-pellets, and occasional treats of frozen bloodworms or brine shrimp. Ensure your aquarium maintains stable water parameters, as these tetras are famously resilient but look their best in well-maintained environments.
Note: Images shown are stock images and not the actual fish you will receive.
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Minimum Tank Size: 10–20 Gallons
Diet: Omnivore
Plant Compatible: Yes
Max Size: 1.75 Inches
Water Conditions: 72 to 82°F, KH 4 to 8, pH 6.0 to 8.0
The Pristella Tetra is a strategic choice for hobbyists looking for "visual intrigue" and unmatched hardiness. Its specialized translucent scales add a layer of depth to the mid-water column, especially when viewed against a dark background or lush greenery. In the context of modern aquascaping, it is widely considered an essential "beginner-friendly schooler" that adapts to a wider range of water chemistry than many other tetra species. For maximum success, provide an environment with moderate water flow and plenty of hiding spots to facilitate its natural schooling instincts and social vitality.
We’ve dialed in the logistics for national Overnight Delivery to ensure your livestock arrives in peak condition. Every order is packed using professional-grade insulation and climate-contingent heat or ice packs, designed to maintain stable temperatures throughout the journey. We handle the technical side of the move so you can focus on the acclimation. Our protocol is built on getting these fish from the facility to your tank with zero compromise on health or vitality.
The Pristella Tetra (Pristella maxillaris), also known as the X-Ray Tetra, is a powerhouse addition to any freshwater community or planted aquarium, blending high-impact aesthetics with essential utility. Featuring a unique translucent body that reveals its internal structure, accented by striking black, yellow, and white banded fins, this active schooler is a master of the "dither fish" era of fish keeping—serving as a natural biological indicator of a stable environment. It is a dedicated middle-water dweller, making it a functional cornerstone of a healthy freshwater ecosystem.
This hardy characin thrives in established systems with plenty of swimming space and soft-to-medium hard water. While generally peaceful and plant-safe, its social nature means it is best kept in schools of six or more to ensure it feels secure and displays its coordinated, shimmering movements. To ensure long-term health, provide a varied diet of high-quality flakes, micro-pellets, and occasional treats of frozen bloodworms or brine shrimp. Ensure your aquarium maintains stable water parameters, as these tetras are famously resilient but look their best in well-maintained environments.
Note: Images shown are stock images and not the actual fish you will receive.
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Minimum Tank Size: 10–20 Gallons
Diet: Omnivore
Plant Compatible: Yes
Max Size: 1.75 Inches
Water Conditions: 72 to 82°F, KH 4 to 8, pH 6.0 to 8.0
The Pristella Tetra is a strategic choice for hobbyists looking for "visual intrigue" and unmatched hardiness. Its specialized translucent scales add a layer of depth to the mid-water column, especially when viewed against a dark background or lush greenery. In the context of modern aquascaping, it is widely considered an essential "beginner-friendly schooler" that adapts to a wider range of water chemistry than many other tetra species. For maximum success, provide an environment with moderate water flow and plenty of hiding spots to facilitate its natural schooling instincts and social vitality.
We’ve dialed in the logistics for national Overnight Delivery to ensure your livestock arrives in peak condition. Every order is packed using professional-grade insulation and climate-contingent heat or ice packs, designed to maintain stable temperatures throughout the journey. We handle the technical side of the move so you can focus on the acclimation. Our protocol is built on getting these fish from the facility to your tank with zero compromise on health or vitality.