RED PHANTOM

Introduction • Common Name: Red Phantom Tetra • Origin: Indigenous to the freshwater rivers and streams of South America, particularly in the Amazon Basin, especially in regions of Brazil. Physical Characteristics • Appearance: The Red Phantom Tetra exhibits a striking red or orange hue, particularly noticeable on the lower half of its body. It has a subtle black stripe running horizontally along its side, and its fins are often semi-transparent, with the dorsal and caudal fins exhibiting a slight reddish tint. • Size: Typically grows to about 2 to 3 inches (5-8 cm) in length. • Lifespan: With appropriate care, these fish can live for around 5 years. Habitat Requirements • Tank Size: A minimum of 10 gallons is recommended for a small group, but larger tanks are preferred to provide ample swimming space. • Water Conditions: o Temperature: Prefers warmer water, ideally between 74°F to 82°F (23°C to 28°C). o pH: Thrives in slightly acidic to neutral pH, usually around 6.0 to 7.5. o Water Hardness: Enjoys soft to moderately hard water, with a hardness range of 2-15 dGH. • Aquascaping: A well-planted aquarium with open swimming areas and hiding spots is ideal. Using driftwood, plants, and leaf litter helps mimic their natural habitat. Diet • Feeding: The Red Phantom Tetra is omnivorous, benefiting from a varied diet. • Food Options: Quality flake food, micro pellets, and occasional treats of frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp and daphnia. • Feeding Frequency: Feed small portions 1-2 times daily, ensuring all food is consumed within a few minutes. Behavior and Compatibility • Temperament: Generally peaceful and sociable, Red Phantom Tetras are best kept in schools of at least 6-8 individuals to minimize stress and encourage natural schooling behavior. • Tank Mates: They coexist well with other small, non-aggressive fish such as tetras, rasboras, and peaceful barbs. • Incompatibilities: Avoid aggressive or larger species that may intimidate or prey on them. Care Level • Difficulty: Ideal for both beginner and experienced aquarists due to their hardy nature and adaptability. • Maintenance: Regular water changes (20-30% weekly) and a reliable filtration system are crucial for maintaining a healthy environment. Breeding • Reproduction: Breeding Red Phantom Tetras can be done in a home aquarium, but it requires specific conditions. • Breeding Setup: Use a separate breeding tank with fine-leaved plants or spawning mops. Maintain soft, slightly acidic water with a temperature around 78°F (26°C). • Breeding Behavior: Males court females, leading to the scattering of eggs among the plants. It's advisable to remove the adults post-spawning to prevent them from eating the eggs. • Fry Care: Eggs usually hatch within 24-36 hours. Fry should be fed infusoria or specialized fry food until they are large enough to accept crushed flakes. Health and Disease • Common Issues: While generally resilient, Red Phantom Tetras can be prone to common aquarium ailments such as ich and fin rot if kept in less than ideal conditions. • Prevention: Maintaining stable water parameters, performing regular tank maintenance, and providing a balanced diet are essential for preventing disease. Conclusion The Red Phantom Tetra is a stunning addition to community aquariums, known for its vibrant coloration and active behavior. By providing proper care, a well-maintained habitat, and compatible tank mates, these tetras can thrive and add visual interest to your aquatic setup. Their lively nature and schooling habits make them a joy to observe, contributing to the overall dynamics of the aquarium environment.