.
Diamond Head Neon Tetra (Paracheirodon innesi)
The Diamond Head Neon Tetra is a stunning selectively bred variety of the classic Neon Tetra, prized for its brilliant metallic "diamond" patch on the head that adds an extra flash of iridescence to its iconic blue and red coloration. This beautiful schooling fish combines the hardiness and peaceful nature of the traditional Neon Tetra with an eye-catching shimmer that makes large schools especially impressive in planted aquariums.
Native to the Amazon Basin through its Paracheirodon innesi lineage, the Diamond Head Neon Tetra thrives in slow-moving streams, blackwater tributaries, and heavily planted environments. In the aquarium, they do best in well-maintained planted tanks with driftwood, subdued lighting, and open swimming areas. As highly social fish, they should always be kept in schools of at least six individuals, though groups of ten or more create the most spectacular display.
Diamond Head Neon Tetras are omnivores and readily accept high-quality micro pellets, crushed tropical flakes, frozen baby brine shrimp, daphnia, cyclops, and other small live or frozen foods. A varied diet helps maintain their brilliant iridescent colors and promotes healthy growth.
Their peaceful temperament makes them ideal companions for Corydoras, small rasboras, dwarf gouramis, Apistogramma, German Blue Rams, Otocinclus, shrimp, and other gentle community fish. They thrive in planted aquariums where their shimmering colors contrast beautifully against lush green vegetation.
Scientific Name: Paracheirodon innesi
Common Name: Diamond Head Neon Tetra
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Diet: Omnivore
Adult Size: Up to 1.5 Inches
Minimum Tank Size: 10 Gallons
Origin: Captive Bred (Amazon Basin Lineage, South America)
If you're looking for a peaceful, brilliantly colored schooling fish, the Diamond Head Neon Tetra is an outstanding choice. Its sparkling metallic head, classic neon coloration, and graceful schooling behavior make it a spectacular addition to planted freshwater aquariums and community tanks.
