The Golden Tetra looks gold because of a specialized protection to its skin. This tetra is more prone to disease than many of the tetras, especially skin parasites. The gold color comes from 'guanin' which is secreted by the skin of this fish to protect it against these parasites. This makes it look like it has been covered with a gold dust, thus its name!

The Golden Tetra are a peaceful schooling fish. They like a bright aquarium that is moderately planted. They are not as commonly available as the other more popular tetras, like Neon tetras, but make a nice addition to the community aquarium.