The black phantom tetra is a small freshwater fish of the characin family of order Characiformes. It is native to the upper Paraguay basin and upper Madeira basin in Brazil and Bolivia. It is commonly seen in the aquarium trade.
Details
| Type | Tetra |
| Family | Cichlidae |
| Species | Hyphessobrycon megalopterus |
| Synonyms | Megalamphodus megalopterus, Megalamphodus rogoaguae |
| Origins | South America: Upper Rio Paraguay & Rio Guaporé basins. Most specimens offered for sale in the aquatics trade are tank-raised. |
| Sexual Dimorphism | Mature males have longer dorsal fins, with black edged anal & pectoral fins. Females anal & pectoral fins can have a reddish hue. |
| Length | 5.0 cm |
| Shoaling | Yes |
| Temperature | 22 - 28 deg C |
| Water parameters | pH 6.0 - 7.5, dH 1 - 18 |
Care
Black Phantom Tetras should be kept in shoals of 6 or more fish. The aquarium should be well-planted with rooted and floating plants in order to provide much appreciated shady areas. Occasionally two males may engage in minor squabbles, displaying their wonderful finnage, but no harm will ensue. Perfectly peaceful with other species.
Feeding
Will accept most aquarium fare offered, including flake, micropellets and small frozen foods such as daphnia.
Breeding
A separate breeding tank should be set up with soft water and plenty of floating plant cover. The pH should be below 6.0 – peat placed in the filter can be useful for this purpose. After an elaborate courtship display, the female will release up to 300 eggs. The adults should be removed immediately to prevent predation.
