CHARACTERISTICS
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Tank Level: |
Mid |
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Minimum Tank Size: |
10 Gallons |
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Diet: |
Omnivore/Micropredator |
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pH: |
6.5-7.0 |
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General water hardness: |
0-12 dGH |
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Temperature: |
73 - 79 F |
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Temperament: |
Community |
The black phantom tetra (Hyphessobrycon megalopterus), or simply phantom tetra, is a small of the () of . It is native to the upper basin and upper basin (including , and ) in and . It is commonly seen in the trade.
While it is not particularly colorful, it makes up for this by its display behavior: the males are territorial and defend their space against their neighbors by presenting themselves in profile with the dorsal and anal fins fully extended, and the dark color intensified, making the edging of the body patch stand out prominently. Sometimes they exchange blows which can tear the fins, but this damage heals quickly. Unlike other tetras who prefer to live in large , they will also do fine when kept in a group of four or five individuals, making them suitable for smaller aquaria. They still need enough space for the males to stake territories and present themselves to best effort, however.