Saltwater Aquarist

X-Ray Tetra

(Pristella maxillaris)

X-Ray Tetra (Pristella maxillaris) in a freshwater aquarium

Species Description…

Scientific Name: Pristella maxillaris
Common Name: X-Ray Tetra
Species Group: Tetra
Tank Type: Community, Planted
Care Level: Beginner
Temperament: Peaceful
Diet Type: Carnivore
Role in Aquarium: Schooling Fish
Max Fish Length: 1.8 (inches)
Min Aquarium Size: 14 (gallons)
Native Range: Coastal waters of Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana and northern Brazil.
Min Temperature: 72°F
Max Temperature: 82°F
Min pH: 6
Max pH: 7.5
Min GH: 2 dGH
Max GH: 20 dGH
Min Group Size:
Breeding: Moderate
Lifespan: years

Overview

  • The X-Ray Tetra (Pristella maxillaris) is a semi-transparent tetra with black, yellow and white fin markings.
  • Native to coastal waters of Venezuela, the Guianas and northern Brazil.
  • Grows to about 1.8 in (4.5 cm) standard length.
  • Commercially bred and one of the best tetras for beginners.

Feeding

  • A micropredator. Feed flakes and granules plus small live and frozen foods.

Habitat

  • A tank with a base of 24 × 12 in (60 × 30 cm).
  • Looks best in a heavily planted tank.
  • Water: 72–82°F (22–28°C), pH 6.0–7.5, GH 2–20.

Fish Care

  • Hardy and adaptable.

Compatibility

  • Very peaceful. Good with small tetras, pencilfish, hatchetfish, Apistogramma, Corydoras and small plecos.

Aquarium Behavior

  • Doesn’t compete well with boisterous fish. [UNVERIFIED] Keep at least 6–8.

Breeding

  • Easy to spawn, but the tiny fry are tricky to raise.
  • Use a dim 18 × 10 × 10 in (45 × 25 × 25 cm) tank with fine-leaved plants or mesh.