Black Phantom Tetra – Hyphessobrycon megalopterus – 2.5 to 3 cm

Hyphessobrycon megalopterus – Black Phantom Tetra

The Black Phantom Tetra (Hyphessobrycon megalopterus) is a small freshwater fish native to South America. It is appreciated for its elegant silvery-grey to black colouration, distinctive dark marking on the sides and attractive fins.

Sexual differences become particularly noticeable in mature fish. Males generally develop a large, dark and prominent dorsal fin. Females often have a slightly fuller body and may display more reddish tones in their fins.

The specimens offered here are approximately 2.5 to 3 cm.

Adult Size

The Black Phantom Tetra generally reaches approximately 4 to 5 cm as an adult.

Water Parameters

Temperature: 22 to 28 °C
pH: 6 to 7.5
Hardness: soft to moderately hard water
Nitrite: 0 mg/L

Nitrite should remain undetectable. Clean, stable and properly filtered water is recommended.

What Size Aquarium for Black Phantom Tetras?

An aquarium at least 60 cm long provides a good basis for keeping a group of Hyphessobrycon megalopterus. A larger aquarium allows a bigger group to be maintained and provides more space for natural behaviour.

Planted areas provide shelter and security, while sufficient open swimming space should also be retained.

Behaviour and Group Keeping

The Black Phantom Tetra is a peaceful and social species. It is preferable to keep at least 8 to 10 individuals, with a larger group recommended when aquarium size allows.

Males may display towards one another and engage in impressive confrontations. These interactions are generally part of their natural social behaviour rather than serious aggression.

Black Phantom Tetras can live alongside many other peaceful species of a suitable size with compatible aquarium requirements.

Feeding

In the wild, Hyphessobrycon megalopterus feeds on small invertebrates, insects, larvae and other small organisms.

In the aquarium, it readily accepts pellets and flakes suitable for the size of its mouth. Frozen or live foods such as Artemia and Daphnia can also be offered as part of a varied diet.

A varied diet helps maintain good condition and attractive colouration.

Breeding

The Black Phantom Tetra is an egg-laying species. It scatters its eggs amongst fine vegetation and provides no parental care.

As adults may eat the eggs and newly hatched fry, controlled breeding generally requires the spawn to be protected.

Origin

Hyphessobrycon megalopterus originates from South America, including Brazil.

Lifespan

Under suitable aquarium conditions, the Black Phantom Tetra can live for approximately 4 to 5 years.

Never Release Aquarium Fish into the Wild

Hyphessobrycon megalopterus must never be released into a river, pond, lake or any other natural environment.