Paracheirodon species generally spawn in schools, although single males and females may become closely associated while the female releases her eggs and the male releases his sperm.

Mating System: polygynandrous (promiscuous)

Information on reproduction in tetras comes from specimens housed in aquaria. Female neon tetras lay approximately 130 eggs on the substrate. Fry hatch in about 24 hours. These fish tend to breed every few weeks. The larvae of these fish are sensitive to ultraviolet radiation, so are restricted in the areas in which they may lay their eggs. Generally, eggs are left under canopies to ensure they hatch. Eggs are typically laid during the rainy and wet seasons when water levels are higher.

Breeding interval: Green neon tetras breed every few weeks.

Breeding season: Breeding season in the wild is influenced by water levels, generally occurring during rainy seasons. In captivity these fish can reproduce at any time of year.

Average number of offspring: 130 eggs.

Average time to hatching: 24 hours.

Key Reproductive Features: iteroparous ; seasonal breeding ; gonochoric/gonochoristic/dioecious (sexes separate); sexual ; fertilization (External ); oviparous

Once eggs are laid, adult tetras do not provide any further parental care. Adult tetras may even eat their eggs and larvae.

Parental Investment: no parental involvement; pre-fertilization (Provisioning, Protecting: Female)