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New to tropical fish forums
Posted: Tue Jul 01, 2025 1:40 am
by Lexi
Just got my first tropical tank, a 20 gallon with some Neon Tetras and a Betta. The Betta seems chill but the Tetras are kinda skittish. Any tips to make 'em feel more at home?
Re: New to tropical fish forums
Posted: Tue Jul 01, 2025 2:13 am
by Lavida
Yo, congrats on the new setup! Bettas can be divas, but Tetras usually just need some plants or driftwood to hide in. Maybe throw in some Java Moss or Anubias to give 'em cover.
Re: New to tropical fish forums
Posted: Tue Jul 01, 2025 3:01 am
by Ridgely
Neon Tetras are schooling fish, so they'll feel more secure in groups of at least six. Also, check your water parameters. They prefer soft, slightly acidic water with a pH around 6.5. What's your filtration like?
Re: New to tropical fish forums
Posted: Tue Jul 01, 2025 3:26 am
by Lexi
Ridgely wrote: ↑Tue Jul 01, 2025 3:01 am
Neon Tetras are schooling fish, so they'll feel more secure in groups of at least six. Also, check your water parameters. They prefer soft, slightly acidic water with a pH around 6.5. What's your filtration like?
Got it, I'll test the water today. Using a sponge filter right now, seems gentle enough for the Betta too.
Re: New to tropical fish forums
Posted: Tue Jul 01, 2025 4:18 am
by Lavida
Sponge filters are solid, especially for Bettas. Just make sure the flow ain't too strong. Also, dim lighting might help the Tetras chill out. They're kinda sensitive to bright lights.
Re: New to tropical fish forums
Posted: Tue Jul 01, 2025 5:15 am
by Ridgely
If you're using tap water, consider a conditioner like Seachem Prime to neutralize chlorine and chloramines. And yeah, low lighting or floating plants like Frogbit can diffuse the light and make the Tetras feel safer.
Re: New to tropical fish forums
Posted: Tue Jul 01, 2025 5:38 am
by Lavida
Ridgely wrote: ↑Tue Jul 01, 2025 5:15 am
If you're using tap water, consider a conditioner like Seachem Prime to neutralize chlorine and chloramines. And yeah, low lighting or floating plants like Frogbit can diffuse the light and make the Tetras feel safer.
Frogbit's a great call. It's easy to grow and looks dope too. Just watch out, it can take over if you let it.
Re: New to tropical fish forums
Posted: Tue Jul 01, 2025 5:50 am
by Lexi
Thanks for the advice, everyone. Gonna grab some more Tetras and try the Frogbit. Appreciate the help!