Black neon tetra - Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi

Scientific name: Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi

Common name: Black neon tetra

Family: Characidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 3 - 4 cm (1.18 - 1.57 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 5.6 - 7.4

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 0 - 18°N (0 - 321.43ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 23 - 27 °C (73.4 - 80.6°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: South America

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Middle levels

Origin

The Black Neon Tetra (Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi) originates from South America, specifically in Brazil. They are commonly found in small, slow-moving streams and waterways that are densely vegetated and have high oxygen levels. These natural habitats typically feature soft, slightly acidic to neutral water, which can be replicated in the home aquarium to keep the fish comfortable.

Short Description

The Black Neon Tetra is a popular and hardy choice for aquarists, particularly beginners, due to its ease of care and peaceful nature. As a member of the Characidae family, these tetras make excellent additions to community tanks with other small, peaceful fish. Black Neon Tetras are known for their striking coloration, featuring a pale green or ivory lateral line along the body that contrasts beautifully with their dark lower body.

Growing up to 3-4 cm (1.18-1.57 inches) in length, they are ideal for smaller aquarium setups. Their manageable size, active swimming behavior, and attractive appearance make them a popular choice for aquarists of all experience levels.

Lifespan

With proper care, the Black Neon Tetra can live up to 5 years or more. Consistent water quality and a balanced diet are crucial to helping them reach their full lifespan potential.

General Care

Black Neon Tetras are a social species that thrive in groups, so it is recommended to keep them in schools of at least 6 individuals. A minimum tank size of 76 liters (20 gallons) is ideal, allowing sufficient space for swimming and ensuring stable water conditions. These fish appreciate low to moderate lighting, which enhances their natural coloration, and they thrive best with a dark substrate that mimics their natural environment.

Adding live plants such as Anubias or Java Fern, which tolerate low light, can create a comfortable and visually appealing setup. Rocks and driftwood can be added for decoration, but ensure plenty of open swimming space remains, as they are active swimmers. Maintain a water temperature of 23-27°C (73.4-80.6°F) and a pH range between 5.6-7.4. Regular water changes of about 10% weekly are essential, and promptly remove any uneaten food to keep water quality high.

Black Neon Tetras can be housed with other peaceful species, such as other tetras, danios, and small bottom dwellers like Corydoras catfish, as long as the tank mates require similar water parameters.

Food and Feeding

Black Neon Tetras are easy to feed and will readily accept a variety of foods. A high-quality flake or small pellet food can serve as their staple diet. To provide variety and additional nutrients, supplement with treats such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, or daphnia once or twice per week. A varied diet helps maintain their vibrant coloration and supports their overall health.

Sexing

Sexing Black Neon Tetras is relatively simple, as mature females are generally larger and have a fuller, rounder body shape than males. This difference becomes more noticeable when females are carrying eggs.

Breeding

Breeding Black Neon Tetras is relatively straightforward, making them a good choice for beginner breeders. For best results, use a separate breeding tank of about 38 liters (10 gallons) with very low lighting. Install an air-driven sponge filter to provide gentle filtration, and maintain soft, slightly acidic water. Adding a layer of marbles or fine mesh at the bottom can help protect the eggs from being eaten by the adults.

Condition the breeding group, consisting of 1-2 males and several females, with live or frozen foods. Once the females are full of eggs, they will scatter the eggs throughout the tank, often in the early morning. The eggs will have a sticky coating, allowing them to attach to plants or the tank walls. After spawning, promptly remove the adults to protect the eggs. The eggs typically hatch within 24 hours, depending on the water temperature. Once the fry become free-swimming, they can be fed infusoria or newly hatched brine shrimp until they grow large enough to accept larger foods.