Product Description
Raccoon Tetra: A lively, colorful addition to community tanks. Ideal for peaceful freshwater aquariums. Easy to care for, perfect for both beginners and experts.

The Raccoon Tetra (Paracheirodon simulans), also known as False Neon Tetra, is a vibrant freshwater fish with distinctive black, white, and gold markings resembling a raccoon’s mask. Its beauty, small size, and peaceful nature make it an excellent choice for aquarium hobbyists, whether you are a beginner or an experienced aquarist. Below are the key care details you need to know about Raccoon Tetras:

Appearance

• Color: Raccoon Tetras feature a striking mix of colors, including iridescent blue bodies, a black mask-like marking near their eyes, and gold or white highlights along their fins.
• Size: These fish are small and typically grow to around 1.5 inches (4 cm) in length, making them ideal for nano and community tanks.
• Shape: Their sleek, torpedo-shaped body allows them to swim swiftly through the water.

Water Conditions

Raccoon Tetras thrive in tropical freshwater conditions, which should mimic their natural habitat in the Amazon River Basin.

• Temperature: The optimal water temperature range is between 72°F and 82°F (22°C to 28°C).
• pH Levels: They prefer slightly acidic to neutral water, with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5.
• Water Hardness: A general hardness (GH) of 2 to 10 dGH is recommended, as they prefer soft water.
• Filtration: A gentle water flow is preferred, so ensure the filtration system is not too strong to avoid stressing the fish.
• Lighting: Moderate to low lighting conditions are ideal, as these tetras are found in shaded areas in the wild. Soft lighting helps enhance their colors.

Tank Setup

The right tank setup ensures that your Raccoon Tetras live a healthy, happy life.

• Tank Size: Although small, these fish are active swimmers and should be kept in a minimum tank size of 20 gallons (75 liters) for a group of 6-8 fish. A larger tank (30 gallons or more) is ideal for housing them with other species.
• Substrate and Decorations: Raccoon Tetras appreciate a natural setting with a sandy substrate, driftwood, and plenty of plants. Floating plants or taller species can help dim the light and create hiding spots.
• Water Movement: Slow water movement is essential, as these fish come from calm streams and rivers.
• Tank Cover: Ensure the tank has a secure lid, as Raccoon Tetras can be jumpers, especially when startled.

Tank Mates

Raccoon Tetras are peaceful, schooling fish that thrive in groups of 6 or more. They make excellent additions to community tanks.

• Best Tank Mates: Other small, peaceful species such as Neon Tetras, Cardinal Tetras, Ember Tetras, Corydoras catfish, and small Rasboras. They can also be kept with dwarf shrimp or small snails.
• Avoid: Aggressive or larger fish that may bully or eat them, such as Cichlids or large Barbs. Additionally, avoid fast-swimming fish that may outcompete them for food.

Feeding Habits

Raccoon Tetras are omnivores and require a balanced diet to maintain their vibrant coloration and health.

• Diet: They accept a wide variety of foods, including high-quality flake foods, micro-pellets, and freeze-dried options. For a protein boost, offer live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, or bloodworms.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed them small portions 2-3 times daily. It’s essential not to overfeed, as leftover food can pollute the water.

Care and Maintenance

Raccoon Tetras are hardy fish, making them relatively easy to care for, but they do require consistent water conditions and proper tank maintenance.

• Water Changes: Perform weekly water changes of about 25% to 30% to keep water parameters stable. This will help prevent the buildup of toxins like ammonia and nitrates.
• Disease Prevention: While they are generally hardy, Raccoon Tetras can be susceptible to common freshwater diseases like Ich and fin rot. To prevent disease, maintain a clean tank, avoid overcrowding, and quarantine any new fish before adding them to the tank.
• Breeding: Raccoon Tetras are egg scatterers and can breed in captivity under the right conditions. If you wish to breed them, set up a separate breeding tank with fine-leaved plants for the eggs to adhere to. Once eggs are laid, remove the adults to prevent them from eating the eggs.

Personality and Behavior

Raccoon Tetras are schooling fish that thrive in groups. Their behavior is active yet peaceful, often seen darting around the tank in unison with their school.

• Social Behavior: These tetras are highly social and need to be kept in groups of at least 6-8. In smaller groups, they can become stressed and exhibit duller colors.
• Activity Level: They are active swimmers, so provide them with open spaces to swim freely, but ensure there are hiding spots to reduce stress.