Neon Tetras

[itafx]

Any advice on successfully breeding neons? Is it hard, easy, medium? Are there any particular tricks? What size tank is needed? How long till the fry grow to adulthood?

[itafx]

Has anyone successfully bred neons? It must be feasible if you can get them at the LFS for $.99 on sale.

[Skyrmir]

Haven't tried it myself, sounds similar to the Danio's I have bred, other than being a bit pickier about water. They like soft acidic and slightly salty water to breed in. Other than that, it's just letting them do their thing in a breeding tank. Then pull the fish out, kill the lights and wait a couple days to see what you got.

[Alshain]

As mentioned, soft water, 5-6 PH, 75 degree water, add a teaspoon of salt per 5 gallons (acclimate slowly, 1/4 of a teaspoon every hour until reaching the desired amount.). Keep in minimal numbers to avoid eggs being eaten, but make sure you keep enough to keep them comfortable.

[itafx]

What does the salt do?

[Alshain]

Many fish swim near the mouths of rivers in the wild to spawn. Some will go all the way until the water becomes brackish, others will get just close enough to detect a hint of salt and stop. The idea behind adding salt is to "trick" your fish into thinking it is time to breed.