The most distinctive feature of the X-Ray Tetra is the translucent layer of skin that covers its small body, making the fish's backbone clearly visible.
Amazing Facts About the X-Ray Tetra
- The X-Ray Tetra is also known as the Golden Pristella Tetra and the Water Goldfinch due to the faint golden colouration of their translucent skin.
- This fish has a bony internal structure known as the Weberian apparatus, which is used in picking up sound waves, and contributes to their acute sense of hearing.
- They are incredibly peaceful and are often tolerant of the other species that they share their habitats with.
- X-ray tetra’s young are called ‘Frys’.
- The female X-Ray Tetra lays 300 – 400 eggs by scattering them amongst vegetation. The fry begin to hatch as early as 24 hours later, and become free swimming within a few days.
- X-ray tetra primarily hunt worms, insects and small crustaceans that live close to the river bed.
- The transparency of their skin is thought to be a form of protection as predators find it much harder to spot them amongst dense vegetation and shimmering water.
- The biggest threat to the X-Ray Tetra is water pollution.