Glowlight Tetras

The Glowlight Tetra (Hemigrammus erythrozonus) is a beautiful and peaceful tetra species known for its striking neon orange-red stripe that seems to glow under aquarium lighting. These small, schooling fish create a mesmerizing display as their glowing stripes move in synchronized groups through the aquarium. Hardy, easy to care for, and exceptionally peaceful, Glowlight Tetras are perfect for planted community tanks and make an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced aquarists.

Care Sheet – Glowlight Tetra (Hemigrammus erythrozonus)

Temperament

• Peaceful, social schooling fish

• Best kept in groups of 8 or more for natural behavior

Adult Size

• 1.5–2 inches

Minimum Tank Size

• 20 gallons for a school

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 74–82°F

• pH: 6.0–7.5

• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (2–15 dGH)

• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm

• Nitrate: <20–30 ppm

Diet

• Omnivorous

• Feed a varied diet:

  • High-quality micro-flakes or small pellets

  • Frozen or live foods: brine shrimp, daphnia

  • Occasional vegetable matter

• Feed small amounts 1–2 times daily

Behavior & Compatibility

• Excellent for peaceful community tanks

• Compatible with:

  • Other small tetras, rasboras, and peaceful fish

  • Corydoras and other bottom dwellers

  • Dwarf gouramis and small peaceful shrimp

• Avoid large or aggressive fish

Aquarium Setup

• Planted tanks with dark substrate to enhance colors

• Open swimming space in the middle levels

• Moderate lighting to showcase glowing stripe

• Clean, well-oxygenated water

Care Level

• Easy

• Very hardy and beginner-friendly

Lifespan

• 3–5 years with proper care

Special Notes

• Striking neon orange-red stripe that appears to glow

• Very peaceful and excellent community fish

• Colors intensify against dark substrate and planted backgrounds

• Schooling behavior creates beautiful synchronized movement