Our Guide To Keeping Black Phantom Tetra Fish
-
About Fish Species:
- Scientific name: Hyphessobrycon megalopterus
- Common name: Black Phantom Tetra
- Family: Characidae
- Origin: South America, Paraná River Basin
- Adult length: 5 cm
- Lifespan: 3 to 5 years
-
Tank Setup:
- Black Phantom Tetras thrive in a well-planted tank with open swimming areas. A tank size of at least 75L is suitable for a small group of these fish.
- Provide hiding spots with plants and decorations, and maintain a dimly lit environment to simulate their natural habitat.
-
Water Parameters:
- Keep the water slightly acidic to neutral with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.
- Maintain the water temperature between 24 to 27°C (75 to 81°F).
-
Filtration and Water Flow:
- Use a gentle filtration system to provide a calm water flow, as Black Phantom Tetras prefer slow to moderate currents.
-
Diet:
- These tetras are omnivores, so offer them a balanced diet of high-quality flake or pellet food supplemented with live or frozen options like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.
-
Tank mates:
- Black Phantom Tetras are peaceful community fish and should be kept in groups of at least six individuals.
- They coexist well with other small, peaceful species such as other tetras, rasboras, and non-aggressive dwarf cichlids.
-
Behavior and Compatibility:
- These tetras exhibit schooling behavior, so keeping them in a group enhances their well-being and natural behaviors.
- Avoid housing them with aggressive or fin-nipping species to prevent stress and potential harm.