Black Phantom Tetra (Hyphessobrycon megalopterus) – A Mysterious and Elegant Addition to Your Aquarium

The Black Phantom Tetra (Hyphessobrycon megalopterus) is a stunning freshwater fish known for its graceful appearance and striking coloration. With its dark, nearly black body and subtle shimmering highlights, the Black Phantom Tetra brings a touch of elegance and mystery to your aquarium. This hardy and peaceful fish is perfect for aquarists looking to add a touch of drama to their community tank, whether swimming in schools or exploring its environment.

Native to the slow-moving rivers and streams of South America, specifically the Amazon and Orinoco basins, the Black Phantom Tetra thrives in schools and prefers a well-planted tank with plenty of hiding spots. Its dark coloration is beautifully offset by its subtle, silvery fins, creating a captivating contrast against the greenery of the aquarium.

Key Features & Care Guidelines:

• Dramatic Black Coloration: The Black Phantom Tetra is easily identifiable by its dark, almost black body that is accented with a silver sheen. A black patch along its dorsal fin adds to its mysterious and elegant appearance, especially under soft aquarium lighting.

• Behavior: Peaceful and social; best kept in schools of 6 or more to encourage natural schooling behavior and reduce stress. These tetras are relatively active but calm and non-aggressive, making them perfect for community tanks.

• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons recommended for a small school, though larger tanks are better for providing more space and stable water conditions. The Black Phantom Tetra thrives in aquariums with dense plant cover and open swimming areas.

• Water Parameters: Prefers slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5, and temperatures ranging from 72°F to 80°F (22°C to 27°C). Stable water conditions, gentle filtration, and moderate water flow help keep the Black Phantom Tetra healthy and vibrant.

• Diet: Omnivorous; accepts a variety of foods including high-quality flakes, pellets, and live or frozen offerings like brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia. A varied diet ensures healthy growth and vibrant coloration.

• Tank Setup: Ideal for well-planted aquariums with moderate lighting. Dense plants will provide hiding spots, while open swimming areas will allow the Black Phantom Tetra to display its graceful movements. Dim lighting brings out the fish’s rich, dark tones.

• Experience Level: Hardy and adaptable, making it suitable for both beginner and experienced aquarists. Its peaceful nature allows it to coexist well with other non-aggressive species in community tanks.

The Black Phantom Tetra (Hyphessobrycon megalopterus) is a visually striking and peaceful fish that adds both elegance and intrigue to any aquarium. Its dark body, accented by shimmering fins and contrasting markings, makes it a beautiful focal point in any well-maintained tank. Whether swimming in groups or exploring the plants, the Black Phantom Tetra will bring both mystery and movement to your aquatic environment.