Tetra Population Numbers

[Benhamin]

So currently I have 8 bloodfin tetras and 4 black neon tetras (plan to get this up to 8 as well).

My question is I have read that some fish prefer odd numbers of the same species, like 9 instead of 8 or what have you.

Does this matter? Are 8 of a species enough?

Thanks!

[madagascariensis]

with the peaceful fish you have, i don't think that that is an issue. as far as I know, the odd/even thing is used to minimize aggression in small schools
of semi-aggressive fish.

[mommy1]

I have never known a fish that could count. That being said, with schooling fish and certain cichlids, the more the merrier. Whether that means odd or even numbers I have never personally witnessed a difference in their behaviors.

[talldutchie]

That odd/even does seem to make a difference with some but not with peaceful tetras.

[steeler58]

It's kind of what you prefer, year's ago people seemed to like odd numbers.

[Taurus]

I have never known a fish that could count.

Ohhhh mine can because I feed them NLS. They're starting on calculus next week.

[KingFisher]

Ohhhh mine can because I feed them NLS. They're starting on calculus next week.

[Fishkeeper]

Actually, a study a couple of years ago showed that many schooling fish can count to four. No kidding.

I personally like odd numbers, but I don't think it matters with peaceful critters.

[mommy1]

I guess they fed them NLS too. Lol I stand corrected.

[Strider199]

I agree with the above Benhamin. Fish cant count over 4 so odd or even, as long as your school is large enough to stop bullying, your good to go.