X-Ray Tetra (Pristella maxillaris) - Live Fish

DESCRIPTION OF ITEM:

The X-Ray Tetra (Pristella maxillaris), also known as Albino Pristella Tetra, is a vibrant and striking variant of the Pristella Tetra. This albino form is well-loved in the aquarium hobby due to its bright, translucent body, which gives it an almost ethereal appearance. It’s a peaceful and active species that does well in community tanks, especially with its schooling nature and eye-catching coloration.

Key Features of the X-Ray Tetra:

1. Appearance:

   • The X-Ray Tetra has a translucent, pale body, which often takes on a soft golden or pinkish hue due to its albino genetics. Its red eyes are a standout feature, and the combination of the pale body and bright eyes creates a striking appearance.
   • The body is slender and streamlined, helping it swim quickly and gracefully. Like other Pristella Tetras, the albino form has black markings on its fins and a distinctive black line running through the center of the body, from the gills to the tail, giving it an elegant "X" shape across the body when viewed from the side.
   • They generally grow to about 1.5 to 2 inches (4-5 cm), making them a smaller tetra species.

2. Habitat:

   • Native to South America, the Pristella Tetra is typically found in the slow-moving rivers and streams of the Amazon Basin. They thrive in well-planted tanks with gentle water flow, which mimics their natural environment.
   • In the aquarium, they do best in groups of at least 6-8 individuals, as they are a shoaling species and feel safest when swimming in numbers.
   • These fish prefer water temperatures between 72-82°F (22-28°C), with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. They also do best in soft to moderately hard water.

3. Diet:

   • The X-Ray Tetra is an omnivore and has a relatively easy diet to cater to. In the aquarium, it will accept a variety of foods, such as:
     • High-quality flake food or pellets
     • Frozen or live foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms
     • Vegetable-based foods, such as spirulina, blanched spinach, or algae wafers
   • A varied diet helps maintain the fish’s health, vibrant coloration, and natural behavior.

4. Behavior:

   • X-Ray Tetra are peaceful and social, making them a perfect choice for a community aquarium. They are not aggressive and will coexist well with other peaceful species, such as neon tetras, gouramis, and corydoras catfish.
   • They prefer to swim in schools and will feel more comfortable in a group of 6 or more. If kept alone, they can become stressed and exhibit shy or withdrawn behavior.
   • Their schooling nature makes them fun to watch, as they often move together in coordinated patterns. They swim primarily in the middle to upper levels of the tank.

5. Tank Care:

   • The X-Ray Tetra is relatively hardy but benefits from a well-maintained tank.
   • They require a gentle filtration system to avoid strong currents, and it’s best to provide live plants, smooth rocks, and driftwood to mimic their natural habitat.
   • Weekly water changes are essential to maintain water quality. A tank with gentle lighting and well-planted areas will help these fish thrive.
   • These tetras are best kept in a stable environment with consistent water parameters.

6. Breeding:

   • Breeding X-Ray Tetra is not very common in home aquariums, but it is possible with the right conditions.
   • They are egg-scattering species and will lay their eggs on plants, the aquarium glass, or other surfaces. It is recommended to have a breeding tank with plenty of plants or spawning mops to collect the eggs.
   • After the eggs are fertilized and laid, they will hatch in about 2-3 days. The fry are tiny and will need to be fed infusoria or liquid fry food until they are large enough to eat larger foods.

Conclusion:

The X-Ray Tetra is a beautiful, peaceful, and active fish that makes an excellent addition to a community aquarium. With its translucent, golden-pink body, red eyes, and elegant swimming behavior, it can be an attractive centerpiece in a well-planted tank. These tetras are easy to care for, provided their basic water requirements are met, and they thrive in a group setting where they feel safe and social. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced aquarist, the X-Ray Tetra is a wonderful fish to keep in a peaceful, vibrant tank.