Black Phantom Tetra care guide
Black Phantom Tetra (Hyphessobrycon megalopterus) — minimum tank 60 L, temperature 22-28 °C, pH 6-7.5.
Overview
The Black Phantom Tetra (Hyphessobrycon megalopterus) is a small characid from the upper Paraguay and Guaporé basins. Males display sooty-black flanks with an enlarged dorsal fin, while females develop pinkish-red ventral and anal fins.
Taxonomy
- Family: Characidae
- Genus: Hyphessobrycon
- Scientific name: Hyphessobrycon megalopterus
Habitat
Native to slow-flowing tributaries of the upper Paraguay and Guaporé river systems in Brazil and Bolivia, in soft, slightly acidic water with dense vegetation.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 60 L (15.9 US gal)
- Adult size: 3-4 cm
- Temperature: 22-28 °C (72-82 °F)
- pH: 6-7.5
- GH: 2-15 °dGH
- Water flow: low
- Lifespan: 3-5 years
- School size: ≥6 individuals
Diet
An omnivore that consumes small invertebrates and plant fragments. In aquaria it accepts flakes, micro-pellets and small live or frozen foods.
Compatibility
A peaceful mid-water shoaling species. Males display to each other but rarely cause physical damage when kept in groups of six or more. Compatible with other small characins, Corydoras and peaceful dwarf cichlids.
Breeding
An egg-scatterer that spawns among fine-leaved plants in soft, acidic water. Remove the parents after spawning to protect the eggs.