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
Our tetra selection changes with each shipment, but you'll often find favorites like:
-
Ember & green neon tetras — tiny, peaceful, and ideal for a nano tank or aquascape.
-
Black neon, lemon, and pristella tetras — hardy, beginner-friendly schoolers with great color.
-
Emperor and phantom tetras — slightly larger, bold-bodied tetras with striking patterns.
-
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.
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 keep the fish calm and confident.
Are tetras good for beginners? Yes. Hardy species like black neon, lemon, and pristella tetras are excellent first fish once your tank is cycled. Cardinal tetras are a little more sensitive and prefer an established tank.
Can I mix different tetra species? You can, but each species schools best with its own kind. If you want a mixed look, keep groups of six-plus of each rather than a few of many.
What's the difference between neon and cardinal tetras? Cardinals have a red stripe that runs the full length of the body, while neons have red only on the rear half. Cardinals also grow a bit larger.
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.
