Silver Tip Tetra 3.5cm

Silver Tip Tetra

The Silver Tip tetra is a criminally underrated species that are small, active, and a fantastic schooling species. Their peaceful nature makes them a great addition to a community tank or a biotope setup. These are species that look especially stunning in large groups of 20 or more fish because of how tight they can swim together, they offer a new and unique alternative to the more common rummy nose tetra whilst also being a hardier fish. 

Silver Tip tetras only reach around 5 cm but they are loaded with shimmer. The body of this tetra is a pure gold colour with a heavily metallic sheen on the face and body area. This gold can then lead into a more olive green near the upper parts of the body. These fish also get their name because of the white or silver tips which contrast surprisingly well in the aquarium, especially on the tail fin. In larger groups, it’s almost deceptive since all the silver spots moving makes it seem like there are more fish than there actually are in the aquarium.

Breeding silver tip tetras is relatively simple, as they follow a similar pattern to other tetra species. Providing a separate breeding tank with fine-leaved plants or a spawning mop will encourage the female to scatter her eggs. The male will fertilize the eggs, but neither parent will protect the eggs or fry. It is essential to remove the adult fish after spawning to prevent them from eating the eggs or young fish.

Tank Recommendations for your Silver Tip Tetra

As Silver Tip Tetras are small and enjoy being in groups, a minimum tank size of 70 litres is recommended. These fish are active swimmers and will appreciate a well-planted tank with plenty of open space for swimming. A soft, sandy substrate with driftwood and rocks for hiding is also ideal. Silver Tip tetras prefer slightly acidic water with a pH of 6.0-7.0 and a temperature between 22-28° C.

Suitable Tank Buddies

Silver tip tetras are generally peaceful and can be kept with a wide range of similarly sized, non-aggressive fish species.

Usually Compatible

Small tetras, rasboras, guppies, mollies, platies, small barbs, corydoras, and small peaceful catfish.

Sometimes Compatible

Larger tetras, angelfish, and gouramis may sometimes be compatible but could pose a threat due to their size or territorial nature.

Rarely Compatible

Predatory fish, aggressive cichlids, or any fish large enough to eat the Silver Tip tetra should be avoided.

Feeding your Silver Tip Tetra

Silver Tip tetras are omnivorous and will accept a wide range of foods. A balanced diet consisting of high-quality flake or micro-pellet food, supplemented with live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, or bloodworms, will keep them healthy and vibrant.