Pristella Tetra (X-Ray Tetra) Care Guide: A Hardy Beginner Schooling Fish

The Pristella Tetra (Pristella maxillaris), better known as the X-ray tetra, is a hardy, peaceful schooling fish named for its translucent, almost see-through body. Its yellow, black, and white fin markings and easygoing nature make it one of the best beginner tetras available. This guide covers everything you need to keep a healthy school.

Quick care overview

• Adult size: about 1.75 inches (4.5 cm)
• Minimum tank size: 15–20 gallons
• Temperature: 72–82°F
• pH: 6.0–8.0
• Temperament: peaceful, schooling
• Diet: omnivore
• Lifespan: 3–5 years

Why it is great for beginners

Unlike many tetras that demand soft, acidic water, the pristella tetra is remarkably adaptable and tolerates a wide range of pH and hardness, including harder tap water. It is also one of the few tetras that can handle slightly brackish conditions. This forgiving nature makes it an ideal choice for newer aquarists who are still dialing in their water parameters.

Tank setup

Provide open swimming space in the middle of the tank alongside planted areas for cover. A darker substrate and background make their subtle colors and translucent bodies stand out. Live plants also help maintain water quality—browse live aquarium plants for their home. Even hardy fish do best with clean water, so keep up a regular routine using our water change guide.

Diet and feeding

Pristella tetras are unfussy omnivores. Feed a quality flake or micro-pellet as a staple and offer occasional frozen or live foods such as daphnia, bloodworms, and brine shrimp to keep them in top condition. Small amounts once or twice a day are plenty.

Behavior and schooling

Keep them in groups of at least 6–8, though larger schools look better and reduce shyness. In a proper group they are active, confident, and constantly on the move in the middle of the tank.

Tank mates

Their peaceful temperament makes them excellent community fish. Good companions include other tetras and rasboras, corydoras, peaceful barbs, dwarf gouramis, and livebearers. Avoid large or aggressive fish. For more schooling-fish guidance, see our tetra care basics and complete guide to freshwater tetras.

Is the pristella tetra right for you?

If you want a hardy, adaptable, and genuinely easy schooling fish that adds gentle movement and an unusual translucent look to a community tank, the pristella tetra is an outstanding pick for beginners and experienced keepers alike. Find them among our freshwater fish.