Black Phantom Tetra

Hyphessobrycon megalopterus

Black Phantom Tetra is a peaceful middle swimmer. Keep in a school of 10+.

PeacefulMiddle swimmerKeep in a school of 10+Beginner – Intermediate

Save this fish or add it directly to one of your aquariums.

Quick facts

Adult size
≤ 1.4" (≤ 3.5 cm)
Aquarium size
19 US gal (72 L) or larger / ≥ 31.5" (≥ 80 cm) minimum length
Care level
Beginner – Intermediate
Temperament
Peaceful
Swimming zone
Middle swimmer
Temperature
72–81°F (22–27°C)
pH
5.5–7.5
GH
3–18 dGH
Diet
Omnivore
Lifespan
up to 5 years
Group behavior
Keep in a school of 10+

Care requirements

Care level: Beginner – Intermediate.

Lifespan: up to 5 years.

Aquarium size and space needs

Minimum aquarium size: 19 US gal (72 L) or larger / ≥ 31.5" (≥ 80 cm) minimum length. Plan the layout and stocking within that limit.

Water parameters

Suitable water: temperature 22–27 °C, pH 5.5–7.5, GH 3–18 dGH.

Temperament and compatibility

Black Phantom Tetra is peaceful and suits calm community fish.

Keep in a school of 10+.

Swimming zone and behavior

This fish uses the middle part of the aquarium, so leave enough open swimming space for movement and feeding. Keep in a school of 10+.

Feeding

As an omnivore, Black Phantom Tetra should receive a varied diet rather than one repeated food type.

Before adding this fish

  • Plan for an aquarium of 19 US gal (72 L) or larger / ≥ 31.5" (≥ 80 cm) minimum length.
  • Make room for its social group.
  • Avoid aggressive or highly competitive fish.
  • Keep in a school of 10+.
  • Offer a varied diet that matches this species.

Natural habitat and origin

Origin: Bolivia, Brazil.

Similar fish profiles

Use these profiles to compare fish with similar care level, size, temperature range, or swimming behavior.

Black Heart Tetra Hyphessobrycon copelandi Same genus Same family Similar care level Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 2" (≤ 5 cm) 75–82°F (24–28°C) Black Line Tetra Hyphessobrycon scholzei Same genus Same family Similar care level Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 2" (≤ 5 cm) 72–81°F (22–27°C) Black Neon Tetra Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi Same genus Same family Similar care level Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 1.6" (≤ 4 cm) 68–79°F (20–26°C) Bleeding Blue Tetra Hyphessobrycon margitae Same genus Same family Similar care level Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 2" (≤ 5 cm) 73–79°F (23–26°C) Blueberry Tetra Hyphessobrycon wadai Same genus Same family Similar care level Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 1" (≤ 2.5 cm) 68–79°F (20–26°C) Bleeding Heart Tetra Hyphessobrycon erythrostigma Same genus Same family Similar care level Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 3.1" (≤ 8 cm) 72–81°F (22–27°C)

FAQ

How large does Black Phantom Tetra get?

Black Phantom Tetra reaches ≤ 1.4" (≤ 3.5 cm).

What aquarium size does Black Phantom Tetra need?

Use an aquarium of at least 19 US gal (72 L) or larger / ≥ 31.5" (≥ 80 cm) minimum length.

Is Black Phantom Tetra peaceful?

Yes. Black Phantom Tetra is recorded as peaceful and is best planned with calm community fish that do not harass it or dominate the feeding area.

What temperature is suitable for Black Phantom Tetra?

Keep it between 22 to 27 °C.

Should Black Phantom Tetra be kept alone or in a group?

Black Phantom Tetra: Keep in a school of 10+.

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