Typical tetra behavior?

[bronzefly]

I've got a school of Neon Tetras in my 20 gallon tank, and they've been acting skittish lately. They dart around a lot, especially when I approach the tank. Is this normal behavior, or should I be worried? Water params are good, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 10 nitrate, pH 6.8. Tankmates are just some Cherry Shrimp and a few Otocinclus.

[riverra]

Neon Tetras are naturally a bit skittish, but excessive darting can mean stress. How's your lighting? Bright lights can freak them out. Also, check if the tank's near high-traffic areas. They're prey fish, so sudden movements spook them. Try adding more plants or driftwood to break sightlines and give 'em hiding spots.

[lunaridge]

Mine did the same thing when I first got 'em. Took about two weeks to chill out. Now they're fine unless I slam a cabinet or something. How long have you had yours? If it's recent, they might just need time to adjust.

[PhilofBromley]

Neon Tetras are naturally a bit skittish, but excessive darting can mean stress. How's your lighting? Bright lights can freak them out. Also, check if the tank's near high-traffic areas. They're prey fish, so sudden movements spook them. Try adding more plants or driftwood to break sightlines and give 'em hiding spots.

Agreed. Floating plants like Frogbit can help diffuse light and make them feel safer. Also, what's your water change routine? Sudden parameter shifts can stress them even if the numbers look fine.

[bronzefly]

Thanks for the advice, everyone. I'll try adding some more plants and see if that helps. They've been in the tank about three weeks, so maybe they're still settling in.

[elirix]

Mine went full panic mode once because of a reflection. Turns out the angle of my tank light made 'em see their own shadows. Adjusted the light, problem solved. Maybe check for weird reflections?

[anglerx]

Yep, sounds like typical tetra stuff. Mine freak out if I wear a red shirt. No idea why. Fish are weird.

[briar8on]

Mine do the zoomies every time I feed 'em. Like little piranhas. Maybe they're just hungry?

[lintel]

Could be a hierarchy thing. Tetras establish pecking orders, and the darting might be lower-ranked fish avoiding bullies. Watch for nipped fins.

[riverra]

Could be a hierarchy thing. Tetras establish pecking orders, and the darting might be lower-ranked fish avoiding bullies. Watch for nipped fins.

Good point. Also, how many do you have? Schools smaller than six can stress 'em out, making 'em more jumpy.