Black Phantom Tetra

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Scientific Name

Hyphessobrycon megalopterus

Min. Tank Size

20 gallons

Personality

Peaceful

Temperature

72-82°F

pH

6.0-7.5/2-18°dGH

Size

1.5"

Diet

Omnivore

Breeding

Egglayer

Compatibility

Best kept in shoals with 6 or more of their own species; can be kept with other Tetras, Livebearers, Rasboras, Danios, Pencilfish, Corydoras, Gouramis and Dwarf Cichlids.

Black Phantom Tetra

The Black Phantom Tetra is a shoaling species native to the Rio Guapore and upper Rio Paraguay regions of Brazil and Bolivia. These fish tend to inhabit clear waters where vegetation grows densely. This species of Tetra exhibits a light gray or silver coloration. Most specimens have a black patch behind the gills on either side of the body which may be edged in silver. Males of the species typically have black fins while the fins in female Black Phantom Tetras are often red, with the exception of a black dorsal fin.

Tank Set-Up

This species is one of the most popular Tetras sold in pet stores because it is highly adaptable and easy to keep. Not only are these fish great for beginning aquarium hobbyists, but they also come in a long-finned strain that can add to the aesthetic appeal of a tank. In the home aquarium, Black Phantom Tetras are likely to thrive in a variety of tank environments as long as the tank is well-maintained. These fish may appear washed out in sparsely decorated tanks but will show especially well in densely planted setups and Amazon biotype tanks. Black Phantom Tetras are a peaceful species and are well suited to the community tank. These fish are best kept in groups with at least 6 or more of their own species and they may put on interesting displays if more than one male is kept in the group.

Feeding

Feeding the Black Phantom Tetra is very easy since it will eagerly accept most foods offered. For optimum health and coloration, feed a varied diet of live and/or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, Daphnia, and bloodworms along with a high quality flake.

Breeding

Breeding Black Phantom Tetras is fairly easy provided the fish are conditioned well on live food. The breeding tank should be kept at a temperature between 75 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit and a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. The breeding tank should be dimly lit or dark with the addition of some Java moss for the female to deposit the eggs on. After spawning has occurred, remove the parent fish from the tank so they do not eat their eggs. The eggs normally hatch in 24 – 36 hours. You should notice freely swimming fry 3 – 4 days after that.