Black Phantom tetra

Black Phantom Tetra (Hyphessobrycon megalopterus)

Appearance & Behavior

Bring subtle contrast and fascinating displays to your freshwater aquarium with Black Phantom Tetras. Their smoky silver bodies feature a bold black shoulder patch edged with a pale shimmer. Males develop prominent dark fins, while females often show warmer reddish tones in their lower fins. A settled group adds gentle movement among plants, with males spreading their fins in brief displays to one another. These social fish are generally peaceful, though occasional chasing can occur within the group.

Quick Care Guide

• Care Level: Easy to moderate; best in an established aquarium

• Temperament: Generally peaceful; males may display and briefly chase one another

• Adult Size: Approximately 1.5–1.75 inches

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

• Temperature: 72–79°F

• pH: 6.0–7.5

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

• Diet: Omnivore

• Swimming Area: Middle

• Recommended Quantity: At least 6; preferably 8–10 or more when aquarium space and stocking allow

Aquarium Setup & Compatibility

Provide planted edges, shaded retreats, and open swimming space. Black Phantom Tetras do best in a fully cycled aquarium with stable water conditions and gentle to moderate circulation. Plants, driftwood, and floating cover help them feel secure and break lines of sight between displaying males. 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 or overly boisterous fish, persistent fin-nippers, and larger fish that could swallow them. Brief displays are normal, but persistent chasing or fin damage calls for closer attention to space, cover, and group dynamics.

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.