Our Guide To Keeping Black Arrow Tetra Fish

1. About Fish Species:

   • Scientific name: Inpaichthys luizae
   • Common name: Black Arrow Tetra
   • Family: Characidae
   • Origin: Brazil, from tributaries of the Rio dos Peixes, within the Rio Juruena and Rio Tapajós basin
   • Adult length: 4 to 5 cm
   • Lifespan: 3 to 5 years
   • Diet: Omnivore
   • Care Level: Easy to Moderate
   • Temperament: Peaceful

2. Tank Setup:

   • Black Arrow Tetras are active shoaling fish that should be kept in a group of at least six, although a larger group of eight or more will help them feel more secure and display better colouration.
   • A minimum tank size of 75L is recommended for a small group, with a longer aquarium preferred to give them enough open swimming space.
   • Provide a planted aquarium with areas of open water, shaded sections, driftwood, fine-leaved plants, and floating plants to help recreate their natural stream habitat.
   • A darker substrate and the addition of botanicals such as dried leaves can help bring out their markings and create a more natural-looking setup.

3. Water Parameters:

   • Black Arrow Tetras prefer soft to moderately hard water with a slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.
   • Keep the water temperature between 22 to 26°C (72 to 79°F).
   • They do best in a mature, stable aquarium with clean water and regular maintenance.

4. Filtration and Water Flow:

   • A gentle to moderate water flow is suitable for Black Arrow Tetras, as they enjoy clean, well-oxygenated water without being exposed to overly strong currents.
   • Use a reliable filter that maintains good water quality while still leaving calm areas in the aquarium where the fish can rest and shoal comfortably.

5. Diet:

   • Black Arrow Tetras are omnivores and will usually accept high-quality flakes, micro pellets, and fine granules as a staple diet.
   • Supplement their diet with small live or frozen foods such as daphnia, cyclops, baby brine shrimp, bloodworms, and mosquito larvae to encourage natural feeding behaviour and strong colouration.
   • Feed small portions once or twice daily, making sure all food is eaten within a few minutes to help maintain good water quality.

6. Tank mates:

   • Black Arrow Tetras are peaceful community fish and are best kept with other small, calm species that enjoy similar soft, warm water conditions.
   • Suitable tank mates include small tetras, rasboras, pencilfish, Corydoras catfish, Otocinclus, small peaceful dwarf cichlids, and other gentle community fish.
   • Avoid keeping them with large, aggressive, or fin-nipping species that may stress them or outcompete them for food.

7. Behavior and Compatibility:

   • Black Arrow Tetras are shoaling fish and will show their best behaviour when kept in a proper group, often swimming together through the middle areas of the aquarium.
   • Males may display to one another, especially when in good condition, but this behaviour is usually harmless when enough space and cover are provided.
   • They are generally peaceful and suitable for planted community aquariums, provided they are not housed with overly boisterous or predatory fish.
   • Stable water quality, subdued lighting, and a well-structured aquascape will help them settle quickly and show their natural colours.