[4] It is a widely distributed and adaptable fish, found in the Amazon and Orinoco basins, as well as coastal rivers in the Guianas in both acidic and alkaline waters.

[7] Older aquarium books often refer to this species by the junior synonym Pristella riddlei.

As a shoaling species, it is usually kept in groups of at least six specimens and away from aggressive or predatory tankmates, but is otherwise easily kept in the community tank.

[citation needed] Ideally, this species can be kept in a tank containing live plants that provide cover and comfort to the tetras, they thrive in a planted environment with well filtered and oxygen rich water with plenty of open swimming space and a greater swimming area.

Some retailers offer an albino variant, which are nearly transparent with visible organs, while keeping their characteristic red tail.