Here is a complete care guide and detailed profile of the Black Neon Tetra, a hardy and attractive freshwater schooling fish known for its elegant appearance and peaceful nature. 🐟 Black...
Here is a complete care guide and detailed profile of the Black Neon Tetra, a hardy and attractive freshwater schooling fish known for its elegant appearance and peaceful nature.
Black Neon Tetra
Black Neon
Neon Tetra (Black variant)
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi |
| Family | Characidae |
| Origin | Paraguay Basin (Brazil, Paraguay) |
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Color | Distinct iridescent white/greenish horizontal stripe over a bold black stripe; transparent fins |
| Size | 1.5 inches (4 cm) |
| Lifespan | 4 – 6 years |
| Sexual Dimorphism | Females are fuller-bodied; males are slimmer and more vibrant |
| Parameter | Ideal Range |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 22°C – 28°C (72°F – 82°F) |
| pH Level | 5.5 – 7.5 |
| Hardness | 2 – 10 dGH |
| Water Type | Freshwater |
| Feature | Recommendations |
|---|---|
| Tank Size | Minimum 10–15 gallons |
| School Size | 6 or more (10+ preferred) |
| Substrate | Dark gravel/sand enhances colors |
| Plants | Heavily planted tank with floating plants and hiding spots |
| Decorations | Driftwood, caves, shaded areas |
| Filtration | Gentle to moderate flow filter |
| Lighting | Moderate (dim lighting enhances stripes) |
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Temperament | Very peaceful and calm |
| Schooling | Tight schooling fish – must be in groups |
| Activity Level | Moderate, steady swimmers |
| Swimming Level | Mid to top levels |
| ✅ Good With | ❌ Avoid With |
|---|---|
| Neon Tetras, Ember Tetras | Large or aggressive fish |
| Corydoras Catfish | Fin-nippers like Tiger Barbs |
| Otocinclus, Guppies | Betta (with caution) |
| Rasboras, Small Gouramis | Goldfish (different temps) |
| Peaceful Shrimp | Predator fish |
| Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Flake Food | High-quality tropical flakes |
| Micro Pellets | Nano pellets or granules |
| Live/Frozen | Brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms |
| Vegetables | Spirulina-based foods, blanched spinach (rarely) |
Feed small amounts 1–2 times daily
Avoid overfeeding to maintain water quality
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Spawning Type | Egg scatterers |
| Breeding Tank | Soft water, low light, fine-leaved plants or mesh bottom |
| Water Conditions | pH ~6.0, temp ~26–28°C |
| Spawning Behavior | Happens early morning; female scatters eggs |
| Parental Care | None – remove adults post-spawning |
| Hatching Time | 24–36 hours |
| Fry Feeding | Infusoria → Baby brine shrimp or micro worms |
✔️ Keep in groups of 6 or more for well-being and reduced stress
✔️ Maintain stable water conditions
✔️ Do regular water changes – 20–30% weekly
✔️ Use live plants and subdued lighting to replicate natural habitat
| Feature | Info |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi |
| Common Name | Black Neon Tetra |
| Size | Up to 1.5 inches |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Care Level | Easy |
| Lifespan | 4–6 years |
| Diet | Omnivorous |
| Tank Level | Mid-top |
| Ideal For | Community and planted tanks |
⚫ Striking black and white neon stripe pattern
🧪 Very hardy and beginner-friendly species
🐟 Ideal for peaceful community aquariums
🌱 Best displayed in heavily planted or dark substrate tanks