Collection: Tetra

Tetras, while often casually referred to as a single group, are not a single, taxonomically defined family. Instead, they represent a diverse assemblage of small to medium-sized freshwater fish that belong to the Characidae family, a vast and incredibly diverse group within the Characiformes order. This order encompasses a staggering array of species, showcasing a remarkable spectrum of shapes, sizes, colors, and behaviors.

The term "Tetra" itself is more of a convenient common name, a label applied to a broad range of characins that share certain characteristics, such as their generally small size and often vibrant coloration. This diverse grouping includes a myriad of species, each with its own unique set of characteristics, from the diminutive and brilliantly colored Neon Tetras to the more robust and active Black Skirt Tetras.

This diversity is not merely superficial; it reflects the incredible evolutionary journey of these fish within the Characidae family. Over millions of years, these fish have adapted to a wide range of aquatic environments, from the fast-flowing rivers of the Amazon to the tranquil waters of smaller streams and tributaries. These adaptations are reflected in their diverse body shapes, coloration patterns, and behavioral traits, resulting in the astonishing variety of tetra species we observe today.

I hope this expanded explanation provides a deeper understanding of the fascinating diversity within the "Tetra" group and their place within the broader context of the Characidae family.