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The Black Phantom Tetra (Hyphessobrycon megalopterus) is a captivating and elegant freshwater fish, highly prized in the aquarium hobby for its striking appearance and peaceful demeanor. Originating from the Amazon River basin in South America, particularly in Bolivia and Brazil, these small characins bring a touch of understated sophistication to any community tank.Their most distinctive feature is their sleek, charcoal-grey to black body, often with a subtle iridescence that catches the light. A prominent, dark humeral spot (shoulder spot) is usually visible, sometimes partially obscured by their dark coloration. Males are particularly stunning, displaying elongated, flowing dorsal and anal fins, often tipped with white, which are used in their intricate courtship displays. Females, while equally beautiful, typically have shorter, more rounded fins, and a beautiful reddish tint to their adipose, pelvic, and anal fins, especially when ready to spawn.Reaching a modest size of about 1.5 to 1.75 inches (3.5-4.5 cm), Black Phantom Tetras are ideal for aquariums of 10 gallons or larger, though a 20-gallon long tank is preferable for a healthy school. They are schooling fish by nature, and thrive in groups of at least six, preferably ten or more. Keeping them in adequate numbers not only reduces stress and shyness but also encourages their natural schooling behaviors and allows for the full display of their social hierarchy and fascinating interactions.These tetras prefer a well-planted aquarium with plenty of hiding spots among live plants like Java Fern, Anubias, and Cabomba, along with open swimming areas. A dark substrate and subdued lighting will help accentuate their colors and make them feel more secure. Water parameters should be soft to moderately hard (GH 5-15, KH 3-8) with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.5) and a temperature range of 72-78°F (22-26°C). Blackwater conditions, achieved through the addition of Indian almond leaves or driftwood, are highly appreciated and can further enhance their coloration and well-being.Black Phantom Tetras are omnivores and are not picky eaters. A varied diet of high-quality flake food, micro pellets, and regular supplementation with small live or frozen foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms will keep them vibrant and healthy. They are generally peaceful and make excellent tank mates for other similarly sized, non-aggressive community fish like other small tetras, rasboras, dwarf cichlids (e.g., Apistogramma), Corydoras catfish, and small peaceful loaches. Avoid housing them with fin-nipping species or overly boisterous fish that might intimidate them.With their elegant appearance, peaceful schooling behavior, and relatively easy care, the Black Phantom Tetra is a fantastic choice for both novice and experienced aquarists looking to add a sophisticated and dynamic element to their freshwater community aquarium.

Males may display harmlessly.