Golden X-Ray Tetra | Pristella maxillaris

Golden X-Ray Tetra (Pristella maxillaris)

The Golden X-Ray Tetra is a peaceful, active, and hardy schooling fish that makes an excellent addition to community aquariums. With its shimmering golden body, deep red tail, and bold yellow-and-black fins, this species stands out beautifully in both planted and traditional aquarium setups. Widely distributed throughout the Amazon River basin, this adaptable tetra thrives in a variety of water conditions, making it a superb choice for aquarists of all experience levels.

Behavior & Compatibility

Golden X-Ray Tetras are highly social and should be kept in groups of 6–8 or more. They usually occupy the top and middle levels of the water column, though they will also venture down to feed.

They are compatible with other small, peaceful fish as well as non-aggressive dwarf and Geophagus cichlids. While generally safe with adult dwarf shrimp, they may prey on smaller shrimp or fry. Larger peaceful invertebrates make excellent companions.

Care & Feeding

Golden X-Ray Tetras are not picky eaters and will readily accept a variety of foods:

• High-quality flakes and micro pellets

• Frozen or freeze-dried foods such as bloodworms, daphnia, or brine shrimp

• Occasional live foods to encourage natural foraging behavior

They show their best coloration and health in planted aquariums with clean water, dark substrate, and some floating plants.

What We Like About This Fish

• Distinctive golden coloration with striking fin and tail highlights

• Peaceful temperament, great for community aquariums

• Active schooling behavior adds energy and movement

• Hardy and adaptable, suitable for a wide range of setups

• Stunning display in planted aquariums

Recommended Tank Parameters

• Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)

• pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic preferred for spawning)

• KH: 2–20 dKH

• Minimum Tank Size: 15–20 gallons (school of 6–8+)

Care Guidelines

• Diet: Mostly carnivorous – flakes, pellets, frozen/live foods

• Social Behavior: Peaceful, shoaling; best in groups

• Origin: Tank-bred (native to the Amazon River Basin)

• Adult Size: 1.6–1.8 in (4–4.5 cm)

• Purchase Size: ~1 in (2.5 cm)

✨ With its golden shimmer, lively schooling behavior, and easy care, the Golden X-Ray Tetra is a beautiful and dependable choice for peaceful community and planted aquariums.