Blue Neon

Paracheirodon simulans, also known as Blue Neon, has its natural origin in South America, where it is native to the Orinoco and Rio Negro. It mainly resides in slow to moderately flowing stretches of water that are surrounded by dense vegetation and have soft, acidic black water. The iridescent blue stripe that runs horizontally along the middle of the body is eponymous and particularly beautiful. A more or less pronounced red stripe is located below this and extends from the base of the caudal fin to the middle of the abdomen. Depending on where it was found, the red component is sometimes even missing completely.

Care in the aquarium
An aquarium volume of at least 60 liters and vigorous planting provide a suitable habitat for the Blue Neon. As a schooling fish, Paracheirodon simulans needs the company of at least 10 conspecifics to feel comfortable. However, it will only show real swarm behavior in stressful situations or if the aquarium and group are large enough. The Blue Neon is a small fish that is suitable for community tanks with other rather small, peaceful fish and for socializing with shrimp. Due to its sensitivity to nitrate, regular water changes are very important. The water should be rather soft, with an average temperature of around 25°C and a pH below 6.0. Blackwater keeping is not essential, but there should be enough humic matter in the water to promote the health of this fish.

Feeding
As an omnivore, the Blue Neon does not have too high demands on the food. Small dry food such as granules or flakes as well as small live and frozen foods are suitable.

Sexual characteristics and breeding
The sex differences in the Blue Neon are quite difficult to identify, but females are slightly larger and have a more powerful physique than males. Breeding of this tetra is difficult and only succeeds in very soft, humic and acidic water.