About the Black Phantom Tetra
Name: Black Phantom Tetra
Max Size: Up to 2 inches (5 cm)
Recommend pH: 6.5-7.5
Recommended Temperature (°F): 72-80°F (22-27°C)
Diet: Black Phantom Tetras are omnivorous. They have a versatile diet and readily accept high-quality flakes, pellets, and small live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia. They also appreciate occasional vegetable matter in their diet, like blanched spinach or lettuce.
Temperament: Peaceful
Schooling or Non-Schooling Fish: Schooling Fish (Black Phantom Tetras are schooling fish and should be kept in groups of at least six individuals to feel secure and exhibit their natural behavior.)
Possible types of tank mates: Black Phantom Tetras are peaceful and can be kept with other small, peaceful fish species. They make good tank mates for tetras, rasboras, guppies, dwarf gouramis, and other community fish of similar size. Avoid housing them with fin-nipping or aggressive species.
Behavior: Black Phantom Tetras are a popular and attractive species known for their striking coloration. They have a dark body with a distinctive black dorsal fin and a red or orange tail fin, creating a beautiful contrast. These tetras are generally peaceful and active swimmers, adding vibrancy to the aquarium. When kept in a group, they exhibit fascinating schooling behavior, moving together in synchronized motions. They prefer a well-planted aquarium with plenty of swimming space and subdued lighting. Black Phantom Tetras are relatively hardy and adaptable, making them suitable for beginner and intermediate aquarists.
Fun Fact: Black Phantom Tetras get their name from the appearance of the male fish during courtship. When in breeding mode, the males display an impressive show of black coloration, especially on their dorsal fin, as a way to attract females. This intense black coloration is believed to mimic a predator's eye, intimidating other males and signaling their readiness to breed. The courtship behavior and color display of Black Phantom Tetras make them an intriguing species to observe during their reproductive cycle.