What is the scientific name of the neon tetra, a small freshwater aquarium fish?

The scientific name of the neon tetra is Paracheirodon innesi.

This small characin comes from blackwater streams and tributaries in the upper Amazon Basin of South America. Its brilliant blue stripe and red lower body make it one of the most recognizable community-aquarium fish.

Neon tetras are schooling fish and are generally kept in groups rather than alone. Their reflective coloration is especially striking in dim, tannin-stained water, where the bright stripe may help individuals remain visible to one another.

The neon tetra is often confused with the cardinal tetra, Paracheirodon axelrodi. Cardinal tetras have red coloration extending farther along the body, while the neon tetra’s red area is usually limited to the rear half. The two are close relatives but separate species.