To cycle your tank, fill the tank with fresh water and run the filter. Add enough NH3 to raise its measurement to 2 ppm. Test the water daily and keep track of how long it takes for the NH3 to break down into NO2-. As NO2- levels rise, add more NH3 to bring them down. Eventually, the process will encourage the growth of NO3-forming bacteria. This will cause the NO2- level to fall. Continue to test the water until all three compounds fall to 0 ppm. [3] X Research source
Plants and driftwood also provide tetras with the hiding places they enjoy in the wild. [6] X Research source
If you want to breed your tetras, keep the pH slightly lower, between 5. 0 and 6. 0.
Peat bags will also help to soften the water, which tetras require for survival. [9] X Research source Peat may discolor the water slightly; however, this is not harmful, and regular partial water changes (which are required anyway) will make sure your water does not look like it came from a swamp.
For breeding, maintain the temperature at about 75 °F (24 °C). [12] X Research source
From time to time, tetras need frozen peas that have been thawed and shelled. This will aid in digestion. Neon tetras may be scared to come up and eat, or they may not notice their food. If they aren’t eating, use a dropper to put the food near them. [15] X Research source
It’s normal for neon tetras to become dull in color at night. This is the result of special skin cells called chromatophores taking a rest. However, if the dullness continues during the day for several days in a row, the fish may be ill. [17] X Research source
If the spots don’t disappear after three days, put your fish in a quarantine tank and add cupramine (copper solution) to the water. Follow the instructions on the label. Keep the copper levels at 0. 2 ppm. You can measure copper levels with a salifert test kit that you can buy in hobby stores. [18] X Research source Kill the Ich in the original tank with aquarium salts, which you can buy in pet supply stores. Add one teaspoon (5 g) per gallon (4 L) of water every 12 hours for 36 hours. Let the salt remain in the tank for 7 to 10 days. If you have plastic plants, aquarium salts will melt them. For the sake of your tetras, toss the plants. [19] X Research source
