Black Phantom Tetra

Hyphessobrycon megalopterus, commonly known as the black phantom tetra, is a small, peaceful freshwater fish native to South America. It features a grey body, a distinctive dark shoulder patch, and grows to about 1.5 to 1.75 inches (3.6 to 4.5 cm).

Natural Habitat and Origin

• Found in the upper basins of the Paraguay and Madeira Rivers (including the Guaporé River) in Brazil and Bolivia.
• Inhabits slow-moving, shallow waters near shorelines, foraging among vegetation, roots, and branches.

Appearance and Sexing

• Body: Disk or tetragonal-shaped, translucent greyish-silver with a prominent black vertical oval mark behind the gills edged in iridescent silver.
• Males: Possess a taller, elongated, solid black dorsal fin and dark-edged fins.
• Females: Feature a black dorsal fin alongside subtle reddish or orange tints on their pelvic, anal, and adipose fins.

Aquarium Care Requirements

Tank Size

• Minimum of 15 to 20 gallons (50–75 liters).

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 70–82°F (21–28°C).
• pH: 6.0–7.5.

Environment

• Densely planted tanks with driftwood, dark substrate, floating plants, and subdued lighting to mimic darkwater conditions.

Social Behavior

• Schooling fish that should be kept in groups of at least 6 to 8 individuals to minimize shyness and reduce mild sparring.
• Males display harmless ritualistic fin-flaring and dominance sparring.

Diet

• Omnivorous; accepts high-quality micro-flakes, micro-granules, and frozen or live foods like brine shrimp and daphnia.