Black Neon tetra |1-2cms | Single

The Black Neon Tetra (Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi) is a striking and hardy freshwater fish known for its sleek black stripe that contrasts with a glowing, neon-white or silver stripe above it. This elegant color pattern, combined with their peaceful nature, makes them a popular choice for community aquariums. Native to the slow-moving rivers and streams of South America, Black Neon Tetras are adaptable and easy to care for, making them a great option for both beginners and experienced aquarists.
Key Characteristics of Black Neon Tetra:
Size: 1.5–2 inches (4–5 cm).
Color: Black lateral stripe bordered by a bright white or silvery neon stripe; translucent fins.
Lifespan: 5–8 years with proper care.
Behavior: Peaceful, shoaling fish that thrive in groups.
Activity Level: Active swimmers that prefer the mid-levels of the tank.
Water Parameters for Black Neon Tetra:
Temperature: 22–28°C (72–82°F), ideal range around 24–26°C (75–79°F).
pH: 5.5–7.5, with slightly acidic to neutral water being ideal.
Hardness: 2–10 dGH.
Tank Size: A minimum of 15 gallons for a small group of 6, but larger tanks are better for more fish and aquascaping.
Tank Setup:
Substrate: Dark-colored substrate enhances their glowing stripe and makes their colors stand out.
Plants: Heavily planted tanks with floating plants like Amazon swords, Java fern, or Anubias to provide hiding spots and replicate their natural habitat.
Lighting: Soft to moderate lighting to mimic the shaded conditions of their natural environment.
Water Flow: Gentle to moderate water movement; they prefer calm waters but can handle moderate currents.
Decor: Include driftwood, rocks, and caves to create hiding places and break up the tank space.
Diet:
Black Neon Tetras are omnivorous and require a balanced diet:
Staple Foods: High-quality micro-pellets or flakes formulated for small tropical fish.
Protein Sources: Live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms.
Vegetable Matter: Spirulina-based foods or finely chopped blanched spinach.
Feeding Tip: Feed them small portions twice a day and ensure the food size is manageable for their small mouths.
Behavior and Tankmates:
Behavior: Black Neon Tetras are peaceful, schooling fish that feel secure in groups of 6 or more. They are active swimmers and display their best colors when kept in a proper school.
Tankmates:
Compatible Species: Other peaceful fish such as neon tetras, cardinal tetras, rasboras, Corydoras catfish, guppies, and dwarf gouramis.
Avoid: Aggressive or fin-nipping species such as tiger barbs or large predatory fish that may intimidate or eat them.
Breeding Black Neon Tetra:
Breeding Black Neon Tetras requires specific conditions:
Breeding Tank: Set up a separate tank with soft, acidic water (pH 5.5–6.5) and dim lighting. Add fine-leaved plants or spawning mops for egg-laying.
Conditioning: Feed the breeding pair a high-protein diet of live or frozen foods to encourage spawning.
Spawning Behavior: Males will chase females, and eggs will be scattered among the plants or substrate.
Egg Care: Remove the adults after spawning, as they may eat the eggs. Eggs hatch in 24–36 hours, and the fry become free-swimming after 3–4 days.
Fry Diet: Start the fry on infusoria or liquid fry food, transitioning to finely crushed flakes or baby brine shrimp as they grow.
Care Tips:
Group Size: Keep them in schools of 6 or more for optimal health and behavior. They are less stressed and more vibrant in larger groups.
Water Quality: Maintain pristine water conditions with regular water changes. They are sensitive to ammonia and nitrate buildup.
Tankmates: Pair them with similarly sized, peaceful fish to prevent stress or competition.
Environment: Provide a natural, densely planted environment to help them feel secure and display their best colors.
Why Choose Black Neon Tetras?
Elegant Appearance: Their contrasting black and neon-white stripes create a stunning display in aquariums.
Hardy and Adaptable: They are easy to care for and suitable for a range of water conditions, making them ideal for beginners.
Social and Peaceful: Their schooling nature and calm demeanor make them excellent tankmates in community setups.
Active and Vibrant: They bring life and movement to the middle levels of the tank.
Conclusion:
The Black Neon Tetra is a captivating addition to any freshwater aquarium, combining beauty, activity, and ease of care. Their elegant appearance and peaceful nature make them a favorite among aquarists. With proper care, they can thrive and bring a lively dynamic to your aquarium for many years.