Description
X-Ray Tetra (Pristella maxillaris) – A Shimmering and Transparent Gem for Your Aquarium
The X-Ray Tetra (Pristella maxillaris) is a captivating and unique freshwater fish that adds an ethereal and mesmerizing quality to any aquarium. Its name comes from its translucent body, which gives the appearance of a glowing skeleton, resembling an "X-ray" view of the fish’s internal structure. This striking transparency, paired with subtle golden and silver hues, makes the X-Ray Tetra a stunning addition to community aquariums.
Native to the clear waters of the Amazon Basin in South America, the X-Ray Tetra is an active and peaceful species that thrives in schools. It’s an excellent choice for aquarists looking to introduce a visually stunning fish that brings both motion and elegance to their tank. Whether in groups or swimming individually, the X-Ray Tetra’s graceful movements and transparent body create a delicate yet striking visual display.
Key Features & Care Guidelines:
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Translucent Body: The X-Ray Tetra is famous for its transparent body that allows you to see the internal organs and skeletal structure, giving it the appearance of a glowing X-ray. This fascinating look makes it an instant focal point in any aquarium.
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Behavior: Peaceful and social; best kept in schools of 6 or more to encourage natural schooling behavior and reduce stress. These fish are active swimmers and thrive in a dynamic tank with other non-aggressive species.
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Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons recommended for a small school, though larger tanks offer more space for swimming and a healthier environment. A well-planted tank with open swimming areas is ideal for these active fish.
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Water Parameters: Prefers slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5, and temperatures ranging from 72°F to 80°F (22°C to 27°C). They enjoy moderate water flow and stable water conditions.
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Diet: Omnivorous; accepts a variety of foods such as high-quality flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia. A varied diet ensures vibrant health and color.
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Tank Setup: Ideal for well-planted aquariums with gentle water flow. Providing hiding spots and open areas will allow the X-Ray Tetra to display its natural behavior. Soft lighting enhances its transparent and shimmering appearance.
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Experience Level: Hardy and adaptable, making the X-Ray Tetra a great choice for both beginners and experienced aquarists. Its peaceful nature makes it an ideal addition to community tanks.
The X-Ray Tetra (Pristella maxillaris) is a true marvel for any aquarium. Its stunning translucent body, active swimming behavior, and peaceful nature create a captivating visual effect that will enhance any community setup. Whether darting through plants or swimming in schools, the X-Ray Tetra adds a subtle elegance and charm to your tank.
Click & Collect
Livestock will only be bagged once you arrive, or if you contact us in advance to request it ready beforehand.
Local Delivery
Order anything from our in-store range and have it delivered right to you.
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Minimum spend: £50
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Delivery up to 10 miles: £10
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Delivery up to 25 miles: £20
Distances are measured “as the crow flies”, not by road.
Once your order is placed, we’ll be in touch to arrange a suitable delivery date and time.
Please note, delivery may take a little longer as we often group orders together to build an efficient delivery run.
Important: If you’re ordering a large aquarium, please ensure someone is available to help unload the van on arrival.
Dry Goods Delivery
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DPD Next Day: 1 working day (order before 12 noon)
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DX Next Day (Heavy Items & Small Aquariums): 1 working day (order before 12 noon)
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Express Pallet: 1–3 working days
If you'd like to add more items to an existing order that hasn't yet been dispatched, please place a Click & Collect order and leave a note asking us to combine the orders.
Please note: We currently only dispatch parcels Wednesday to Friday.
Pre-Order
Want the full details? Check out our Terms & Conditions.
Livestock Delivery
Thursday Delivery – £24
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Dispatched Wednesday afternoon
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Delivered Thursday before 1pm
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Order by Wednesday 12 noon
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Minimum spend: £50
Friday Delivery – £24
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Dispatched Thursday afternoon
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Delivered Friday before 1pm
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Order by Thursday 12 noon
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Minimum spend: £50
Saturday Delivery – £29
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Dispatched Friday afternoon
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Delivered Saturday before 1pm
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Order by Friday 12 noon
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Minimum spend: £50
📦 Want to Add to an Existing Order?
No problem! Just place a Click & Collect order and leave a note asking us to link it with your original one (as long as it hasn’t been dispatched yet).
🛒 Dry Goods Now Included!
You can now include dry goods in your livestock delivery – perfect for topping up supplies in one go.
❄️ Please note: We can’t send frozen food with livestock – please order frozen items separately.
⚠️ Delivery Exclusions
Unfortunately, we’re unable to deliver livestock to the following postcodes:
Scotland & Isles:
AB30–AB56, DD8–DD10, DG3–DG9, DG12–DG14, FK17–FK21, KA18–KA19, KA26–KA30, PA20–PA38, PA80, PH3–PH40
Cornwall Isles: TR21–TR25
All of the following postcodes are excluded:
BT, HS, IM, IV, JE, KW
Plus Channel Islands and Shetland Islands
Payment & Security
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