The Pristella Tetra, scientifically known as Pristella maxillaris, is a hardy and attractive schooling characin from northern South America, including the Amazon and coastal rivers of Guyana and Suriname.

Adults grow to about 1.5 to 2 inches (4 to 5 cm). Their body is translucent silvery-yellow with a distinct caudal fin tinted vivid orange or red. The dorsal and anal fins carry a characteristic pattern of yellow and black, giving them a unique and recognizable look among tetras.

A tank of at least 15 gallons is recommended for a small school. They should be kept in groups of six or more to promote natural behavior and coloration. A planted setup with fine gravel or sand substrate, open swimming space, driftwood, and floating plants to diffuse light will help replicate their natural environment.

Water parameters should include a temperature range of 72 to 82°F (22 to 28°C), a pH between about 6.0 and 7.5, and soft to moderately hard water. While they can tolerate a range of conditions including slightly brackish water, they thrive best with stable, clean water.

Feeding Pristella maxillaris is straightforward. They are omnivores and accept high-quality flakes or micro pellets, and they thrive when given live or frozen foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp or bloodworms. A varied diet helps maintain their vibrant fin colors.

Pristella Tetras are peaceful and suitable for community aquariums with other small, calm fish such as rasboras, Corydoras, small loaches, or dwarf cichlids. Avoid large or aggressive species that might intimidate or prey on them.

Breeding is possible in captivity. They are egg scatterers and will release eggs among fine-leaved plants or spawning mops. Adults show no parental care, so it’s best to remove them after spawning for fry survival. Fry can start on infusoria or finely powdered food before transitioning to baby brine shrimp.

Pristella maxillaris (Pristella Tetra) is a beautiful, adaptable fish that adds subtle elegance, shimmer, and peaceful schooling motion to planted and community aquariums.