BLACK PHANTOM TETRA

Introduction • Common Name: Black Phantom Tetra • Origin: Native to the freshwater rivers and streams of South America, particularly in regions of Brazil and Paraguay. Physical Characteristics • Appearance: The Black Phantom Tetra is known for its striking dark coloration, featuring a predominantly black body with subtle iridescent hints of green or blue. Adult fish exhibit a distinct dark patch or "phantom" shape on the upper part of their body, which contributes to their unique look. They also have a forked tail that adds to their graceful swimming style. • Size: Typically reaches a length of 2 to 3 inches (5 to 7.5 cm) when fully grown. • Lifespan: With proper care, they can live up to 5 years in an aquarium setting. Habitat Requirements • Tank Size: A minimum of 10 gallons is recommended for a small group, though larger tanks are preferable for a more stable environment. • Water Conditions: o Temperature: Prefers temperatures between 72°F to 80°F (22°C to 27°C). o pH: Thrives in slightly acidic to neutral pH levels, ideally around 6.0 to 7.5. o Water Hardness: Best kept in soft to moderately hard water (2-15 dGH). • Aquascaping: A well-planted tank with plenty of hiding spots will mimic their natural habitat. Use floating plants, rocks, and driftwood to create shaded areas, promoting comfort and security. Diet • Feeding: The Black Phantom Tetra is omnivorous and thrives on a balanced diet. They will readily accept high-quality flake food, granules, and pellets. • Supplemental Foods: Including live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms in their diet will enhance their color and overall health. • Feeding Frequency: Feed them 1-2 times daily, offering only as much food as they can consume in a few minutes. Behavior and Compatibility • Temperament: Generally peaceful and social, these tetras prefer to be in groups of at least 6 to 8 individuals. This schooling behavior reduces stress and encourages natural activities. • Tank Mates: Compatible with other small, peaceful fish such as rasboras, danios, and other community species. • Incompatibilities: Avoid aggressive or larger fish that may intimidate or prey on them. Care Level • Difficulty: Considered a good choice for both beginners and experienced aquarists due to their adaptability and hardiness. • Maintenance: Regular water changes of about 20-30% weekly are essential to maintain good water quality. A quality filtration system is also crucial. Breeding • Reproduction: The Black Phantom Tetra can be bred in home aquariums. They are egg scatterers and require specific conditions for successful breeding. • Breeding Setup: A separate breeding tank with fine-leaved plants or spawning mops is ideal. Maintain soft, slightly acidic water (pH 6.0-6.5) and a temperature of around 75°F (24°C). • Breeding Behavior: Males will court females, leading to the scattering of eggs among the plants. After spawning, it’s recommended to remove adult fish to prevent them from consuming the eggs. • Fry Care: Eggs will hatch within 24-36 hours, and fry can be fed infusoria or powdered fry food until they are large enough to accept finely crushed flakes. Health and Disease • Common Issues: Generally hardy, but susceptible to common aquarium ailments such as ich, fin rot, and other stress-related diseases if not maintained in optimal conditions. • Prevention: Regular tank maintenance, stable water parameters, and a nutritious diet are essential for disease prevention. Conclusion The Black Phantom Tetra is an attractive and active fish that adds both beauty and liveliness to community aquariums. With their peaceful demeanor and compatibility with a variety of tank mates, they are an excellent choice for aquarists looking to create a vibrant underwater environment. By providing appropriate care and conditions, these tetras can thrive and become a delightful part of your aquarium experience.