Family: Characidae
Distribution: Pristella maxillaris, known commonly as X-ray Tetra, is a pelagic South American species distributed in several parts of the Amazon River basin, the Orinoco River, and some coastal river drainages of the Guianas. It mostly occurs in ocean waters and in heavily vegetated swamps.
PH: 6.0 – 8.0
Temperature: 24°C – 28C (75 – 82F)
Hardness: 4 – 18 dH
Description: Pristella maxillaris can reach up to 5 cm in length. It is a popular species among aquarists thanks to its intricate colouration and peaceful demeanour. This species has a highly transparent body – reflected in its common name – and a round, small humeral spot. Males are most slender than females; and you may actually be able to see the eggs inside the females when she is pregnant. Its dorsal fin has a black spot which is over-lined with white and underlined with yellow; its pelvic and anal fins have the same colouration. Pristella maxillaris has a life expectancy of about five years.
Diet: The X-ray Tetra will eat most foods offered to it, but you should use a quality flake as a staple diet. Offer it treats of bloodworm, white worms and brine shrimp once or twice a week.
Breeding: This species will breed easily, but raising the fry is the hard part. Put a pair in a breeding tank with neutral, moderately hard water. Provide plenty of vegetation in the tank and make sure there is available swimming space up the front. The female will lay as many as 500 eggs will be laid, which should hatch in about 2 – 3 days. The fry will be sensitive to any changes in their environment; it is recommended you make frequent subtle water changes to keep the youngsters healthy.
Comments: This schooling species will require at least a 10 litre tank. You should provide plenty of open areas for swimming, several plants – particularly when attempting to breed – and some hiding spaces. A dark soil substrate is recommended so as to highlight the fish’s natural colouration. The X-ray Tetra is quite easy to maintain and is relatively hardy, making it very suitable for newcomers to the hobby.
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Recommended Compatible Species: This peaceful species is tolerant of many water conditions and makes a great tank mate. They seem to be compatible with Yoyo Loaches, Opaline Gouramis, Bettas and some Plecos. You should house Pristella maxillaris in groups of at least 6 – 8.
Originally posted 2009-11-07 03:04:41. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
