General Information

Tetras, which include species like Neons, Piranhas, Silver Dollars, and Hatchetfish, are described by some as very “fish-like” fishes; that is, having a very characteristic shape. Their bodies are laterally compressed and they have a streamlined appearance. They all have teeth and scales and lack barbels or whiskers. Tetras are found in lakes, rivers, and streams in Africa as well as Central and South America. No Tetras are native to Europe, Asia, and Australia and, needless to say, Antarctica. We’ve included the Danios with the Tetras since they occupy the same ecological niche, thrive in the same type of aquarium environment, and have the same dietary requirements. These fishes are similar to Tetras in virtually every way except for a few physical characteristics that warrant their classification in a different family (Cyprinidae)—the same family in which Loaches, Barbs, Freshwater Sharks, Goldfish, and Koi are included.