Glowlight tetras are one of the most underrated beginner shoaling fish — a peaceful, hardy tetra with a glowing neon-orange stripe running the length of its silvery body, like an ember catching the light. They’re calmer and less demanding than many tetras, making them a lovely, easy addition to a community tank. This UK guide covers glowlight tetra care.
Here’s how to keep them.
- Glowlight tetras are peaceful, hardy shoaling tetras with a glowing orange stripe.
- They're calmer and less demanding than many tetras — great for beginners.
- Keep a shoal of at least eight over dark substrate for best colour.
- They mix well with other peaceful community fish and shrimp.
Quick facts
- Adult size: 4 cm
- Tank size: 60 litres for a shoal of 8+
- Water: pH 6.0–7.5, soft to medium, 24–28 °C
- Lifespan: 4–5 years
- Temperament: peaceful, shoaling
Tank setup and shoaling
Keep a shoal of at least eight — glowlights are peaceful and feel secure in numbers, showing their best colour against dark substrate and planting. They’re more adaptable to water than fussier tetras but still prefer a mature, stable tank. Feed small flake and frozen foods. Their orange glow pops with tannin-stained water.
Tank mates
Excellent with other peaceful community fish: rasboras, ember tetras, honey gouramis, corydoras and cherry shrimp. Avoid fin-nippers and large fish.
Frequently asked questions
How many glowlight tetras should I keep?
At least eight. They are peaceful shoaling fish that feel secure and show their best colour and behaviour in a group.
Are glowlight tetras hardy?
Yes — they are among the hardier, more adaptable tetras, tolerating a range of water conditions in a mature tank, which makes them a good beginner shoaling fish.
What fish live well with glowlight tetras?
Other peaceful community fish such as rasboras, ember tetras, honey gouramis, corydoras and cherry shrimp. Avoid fin-nippers and fish large enough to eat them.
— Jaqline Smalling, FishForever
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