Care guide
Golden pencilfish care
There's no guide just for Golden pencilfish yet. Here's caring for tetras; ask the seller about anything specific to this species.
- Adult size
- About 4 cm
- Water temperature
- 24–28 °C
- pH
- 5.5–7.5
- Smallest tank
- 60 litres
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Care level
- Moderate
Tetras are small, peaceful schooling fish from soft, slightly acidic rivers. Keep them in groups of six or more in a planted tank and they'll show their best colour.
Keep a school
Tetras feel safe and behave naturally in groups of at least six, more for the smallest species. A lone tetra is stressed and pale.
Water
Most do best in soft to medium water with a pH of 6 to 7.5, plants, and subdued light. Some, like serpae tetras, nip fins; don't keep them with long-finned fish.
Food
Feed small flakes or micro-pellets and frozen or live foods such as daphnia and brine shrimp.
Further reading
General information to help you prepare, not veterinary advice. Every animal is different: ask an experienced vet about yours. Reviewed by PerfectPal on October 14, 2026.