Black Neon Tetra

Black Neon Tetra (Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi)

Appearance & Behavior

Bring striking contrast and gentle movement to your freshwater aquarium with Black Neon Tetras. A bright silvery-green stripe runs above a broad black band, while a reddish upper eye adds a subtle splash of color. A group moving among green plants creates a crisp, understated display. These peaceful, social fish feel more secure with their own kind and make a lively addition to a well-planned community aquarium.

Quick Care Guide

• Care Level: Easy; best in an established aquarium

• Temperament: Peaceful

• Adult Size: Approximately 1.5 inches

• Minimum Aquarium Size: 20 gallons recommended for a school and comfortable swimming space

• Temperature: 73–80°F

• pH: 5.5–7.5

• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water, approximately 2–15 dGH

• Diet: Omnivore

• Swimming Area: Middle to upper

• Recommended Quantity: At least 6; preferably 10 or more when aquarium space and stocking allow

Aquarium Setup & Compatibility

Provide planted edges, shaded retreats, and open swimming space. Black Neon Tetras do best in a fully cycled aquarium with stable water conditions and gentle to moderate circulation. Floating plants and a darker background can help their contrasting stripes stand out, but leave open areas for swimming and feeding. Use a secure lid and avoid abrupt changes in temperature or water chemistry.

Good companions include peaceful tetras, rasboras, small gouramis, and Corydoras species with compatible care requirements. Plant-safe snails and adult dwarf shrimp may coexist, though tiny shrimplets can be eaten. Avoid aggressive fish, persistent fin-nippers, and larger fish that could swallow them.

Feeding

Feed Hatchery Diet 1.2 mm, supplemented with Daphnia and Bloodworms. Crush pellets or cut larger bloodworms into smaller pieces as needed to fit their mouths. Offer small portions and ensure newly introduced or shy fish have a chance to eat.