The Black Neon Tetra (Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi) is a freshwater fish species that is popular among aquarists for its striking appearance and peaceful temperament. This fish is native to the river, creeks and pond of the Paraguay basin in Brazil and Paraguay. Black Tetra have very calm behavior, a nice blue stripe color on the body from the front of the head to the tall, and can be kept in a community tank with other tank mates such as crustaceans and
The Black Neon Tetra is a schooling fish that prefers to be kept in groups of at least six individuals. It is an active swimmer that requires plenty of swimming space in the aquarium. A tank size of at least 20 gallons is recommended for a group of six Black Neon Tetras this will give them enough space to swim and enjoy their habitat.
In terms of water parameters, the Black Neon Tetra prefers soft to moderately hard water with a pH level of 5.5 to 7.5. The water temperature should be maintained between 72°F to 82°F. A good filtration system is necessary to maintain water quality and prevent the buildup of harmful ammonia and nitrate levels.
The Black Neon Tetra is an omnivore and will eat a variety of food including flakes, worms, brine shrimp, daphnia, and even plant matter. A diet that includes a mix of protein-rich foods and plant matter is recommended for optimal health. This will give them the most coloration on their body in the aquariums.
In the aquarium, the Black Neon Tetra will appreciate the addition of plants, rocks, substrate, and driftwood for hiding places and swimming through. Java moss is a great plant for the Black Neon Tetra, as it provides a place for eggs to be laid and fry to hide.
Breeding Black Neon Tetras is possible in a separate spawning tank with soft not too high hardness, acidic water and a temperature of around 78°F. Breeding pairs should be introduced to the breeding tank and provided with plenty of hiding places such as mesh or cardboard. The eggs will hatch in about 24 hours and the fry can be fed baby brine shrimp and infusoria.
Black Neon Tetras are generally hardy fish, but they are susceptible to diseases such as Neon Tetra Disease, ich, and dropsy. A proper diet, good water conditions, and stress-free environment are essential for their health.
Overall, the Black Neon Tetra is a great addition to any community aquarium and will bring joy and beauty to any space. With proper care, they can live up to five years in captivity.
What You Can Expect From This Fish:
- Noticeable fish in any aquarium due to their vivid neon red and blue coloration
- Peaceful disposition with fish and peaceful invertebrates
- Love inhabiting the top of the aquarium
RECOMMENDED TANK PARAMETERS:
- Temperature: 64° – 82° F (18° – 27.7° C)
- pH: 5.5 – 7.0, more acidic water is preferred
- KH: 4 – 8 dKH
- Minimum tank size: 10 gallons
CARE GUIDELINES:
- Diet: Mix of frozen foods including daphnia, baby brine, cyclops, and bloodworms are acceptable to them.
- Social behavior: Peaceful, schooling/shoaling.
- Origin: Tank-bred, but native to South America
- Average adult size: 1 – 1.5 inches (2.5 – 3.8 cm)
- Average purchase size: 1/4 – 1 inch (0.6 – 2.5 cm)
See more details about the care guide for Tetra here.