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Tetras for Sale
Shop our colorful selection of freshwater tetras, the schooling fish that bring shimmering movement and a splash of color to any community aquarium. Tetras are peaceful, active, and endlessly popular for good reason: a tight school flashing through a planted tank is one of the most beautiful sights in the hobby. At Tropical Treasures in Cheyenne we keep a rotating lineup of healthy, well-conditioned tetras, from tiny ember tetras to bold emperor tetras.
Because tetras are schooling fish, they look and behave best in groups of six or more of the same species. Keep them in numbers and you'll see better color, more natural behavior, and far less stress. For a deeper dive, see our complete guide to freshwater tetras.
Popular Tetra Varieties
We frequently stock a variety of freshwater tetras including Neon Tetras, Cardinal Tetras, Ember Tetras, Green Neon Tetras, Black Neon Tetras, Lemon Tetras, Pristella Tetras, Emperor Tetras, Black Phantom Tetras, and other peaceful schooling fish.
Our tetra selection changes with each shipment, but you'll often find favorites like:
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Ember & green neon tetras — tiny, peaceful, and ideal for a nano tank or aquascape.
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Black neon, lemon, and pristella tetras — hardy, beginner-friendly schoolers with great color.
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Emperor and phantom tetras — slightly larger, bold-bodied tetras with striking patterns.
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Cardinal and neon tetras — the classic glowing community fish. (Cardinal vs. neon tetra)
For more on specific species, check our black phantom tetra care guide.
🌿 Perfect for Planted Aquariums
Tetras are among the best fish for planted aquariums. Their peaceful nature, small size, and bright colors make them ideal companions for aquatic plants, shrimp, corydoras catfish, and other community fish. A school of tetras swimming through a planted aquarium creates a natural, eye-catching display.
Tetra Care Tips
Most tetras come from soft, slightly acidic waters, so they thrive in a well-cycled, stable tank with gentle filtration. Always cycle your aquarium fully before adding them and add tetras in groups rather than one at a time. They appreciate live plants and a darker substrate, which makes them feel secure and brings out richer color. Feed a varied diet of high-quality micro pellets, flakes, and frozen foods, and keep up with regular water changes to keep your school vibrant and healthy.
Best Tank Mates for Tetras
Tetras are model community fish. They pair wonderfully with rasboras, corydoras catfish, peaceful loaches, and a shrimp clean-up crew. They also mix well with calm guppies and other livebearers. For inspiration, see our roundup of the best schooling fish for freshwater aquariums.
FAQ: Tetras
How many tetras should I keep together?
Keep at least six of the same species. Larger schools of eight to twelve look stunning and help keep the fish calm and confident.
Are tetras good for beginners?
Yes. Hardy species like Black Neon Tetras, Lemon Tetras, and Pristella Tetras are excellent beginner fish once the aquarium is cycled. Cardinal Tetras are a little more sensitive and do best in an established tank.
Can I mix different tetra species?
You can, but each species schools best with its own kind. For the best behavior and appearance, keep groups of six or more of each species instead of only one or two of many different types.
What is the difference between Neon Tetras and Cardinal Tetras?
Cardinal Tetras have a red stripe that runs the full length of the body, while Neon Tetras have red mainly on the rear half. Cardinal Tetras also grow slightly larger.
What size aquarium do tetras need?
Most tetra species do best in aquariums of 20 gallons or larger, especially when kept in schools. Smaller species such as Ember Tetras may work in smaller planted aquariums, while larger species appreciate more swimming room.
Aquarium hobbyists from Cheyenne, Casper, Laramie, Fort Collins, Greeley, Scottsbluff, and surrounding communities visit Tropical Treasures Wyo for healthy freshwater tetras, community fish, and expert aquarium advice.
Stop by Tropical Treasures in Cheyenne or call us at 307-369-1118 and we'll help you build a bright, peaceful tetra school that fits your tank. We're happy to recommend the best varieties for beginners.
