Heritage meets innovation: Tetra’s evolving vision for the aquatics industry

For more than seven decades, Tetra has represented pioneering excellence in the aquatics industry. From its iconic yellow flake food tin to major innovations in water care and nutrition, the company continues to balance tradition with forward-looking innovation.

The latest developments, including TetraPRO Fertility and the CareVolution packaging relaunch, strengthen Tetra’s position as a global market leader while reflecting a long-standing commitment to innovation as part of its heritage.

TetraPRO range: innovation in fish nutrition

Since its introduction in 2000, the TetraPRO range has set new standards in premium fish nutrition. Produced at Tetra’s headquarters in Melle, Germany, the crisp-based food format maintains nutrient retention and vitamin stability while minimizing food dust in the tin, improving digestibility and reducing waste. With a balanced protein-to-fat ratio and naturally included prebiotics, TetraPRO is widely trusted by aquarists who seek advanced nutrition for ornamental fish.

In September 2025, Tetra expanded the range with a new addition: TetraPRO Fertility. More than an updated formula, the product is designed to support the nutritional needs of ornamental fish during breeding.

Enriched with turmeric, a carefully selected natural ingredient, the formulation stimulates the production of vitellogenin, a precursor to yolk proteins that support embryo nourishment and protection. The result is improved egg quality, stronger larvae and enhanced immune resilience, contributing to greater breeding success. With this development, Tetra combines natural science with advanced research to provide breeders and hobbyists with a practical solution for improving ornamental fish reproduction.

Beyond TetraPRO Fertility, the range includes four targeted formulas: TetraPRO Energy supports healthy growth; TetraPRO Colour enhances natural coloration; TetraPRO Algae promotes vitality and immune strength; and TetraPRO Menu combines four varieties in one can, including an exclusive Growth crisp. All products are free from artificial colorants and added preservatives and come in sustainable packaging, reflecting Tetra’s overarching philosophy that less is more.

A fresh look for a trusted classic

In addition to new developments such as TetraPRO Fertility, Tetra is also enhancing its existing product range. For decades, the company’s indoor water care products have been as visually distinctive as they are scientifically reliable. The familiar yellow bottles have supported aquarists worldwide in addressing challenges ranging from algae blooms to high nitrate levels. In 2024, Tetra began a comprehensive visual redesign to modernize the line.

Following the relaunch of the pond care range, the indoor water care assortment is next to receive a complete redesign. The yellow packaging is being replaced by deep blue, supported by clear icons, intuitive color coding and aquatic imagery that highlights function and benefit.

This rebranding reflects a broader shift in how Tetra communicates with its customers, combining modernized aesthetics with practical improvements that enhance both retail presentation and user experience.

The first products featuring the new design were released in September 2025, including trusted Tetra classics such as Tetra CrystalWater and Tetra NitrateMinus. Despite the visual update, the company’s identity remains consistent. The familiar yellow logo continues to appear at the top of every bottle, serving as a recognizable symbol in the refreshed range.

As Janina Garving, Brand Director Aquatics at Tetra, explains: “We know how beloved the yellow bottles are; they have become part of the Tetra legacy. Innovation remains at the heart of what we do, and this new design reflects our commitment to clarity, simplicity and ongoing excellence.”

Pioneering since 1951

The drive for innovation at Tetra has been part of the company’s DNA since its founding. Founded in 1951 by biologist Dr. Ulrich Baensch, Tetra set out to make it easier for people to keep tropical ornamental fish at home.

At a time when feeding aquarium fish required collecting live food from lakes or streams, Dr. Baensch developed the world’s first industrially produced fish food. His breakthrough came in 1955 with the launch of TetraMin, the first flake food for ornamental fish, which remains one of the bestselling fish foods worldwide.

Tetra continued building on that success by expanding its portfolio to include water conditioners, medications, filter technology and complete aquarium sets. Many of these products were industry firsts and helped establish the foundation for modern aquatic care.

Today, Tetra operates an industry-leading research and development department staffed by biologists and engineers. Its commitment to scientific excellence, customer insight and sustainability continues to drive progress in the aquatics industry.

In line with the motto ‘less is more’, the company recently reformulated its entire food portfolio using fewer but higher-quality ingredients. The company is switching all packaging to recyclable or fully recycled materials, a change expected to save up to 520 tonnes of plastic annually and significantly reduce the company’s environmental footprint.

Global reach, local expertise

Tetra’s headquarters and production facilities remain in Melle, Lower Saxony, where the company develops and manufactures products for the global market. With sales in more than 120 countries and local teams on every continent, Tetra combines global reach with regional expertise. Since 2005, it has been part of the US-based. Spectrum Brands group, benefiting from international synergies while maintaining its distinct brand identity.

Over the years, the company has received several international awards, including the World Branding Award, the Brand of the Century Award and the Highest Quality Seal from the F.A.Z. Institute. More importantly, Tetra remains a trusted partner to generations of aquarists and industry professionals, continuing to bring the underwater world closer to homes around the globe.