Black tetra – Gymnocorymbus Ternetzi
The Black tetra, also known as the black widow tetra, comes from Amazonia – in Southern Brazil. It is best to keep these fish in small groups. The black tetra spends its time in the middle or upper layers of the tank. Color varieties such as the albino black tetra and white tetra have been bred in the aquarium trade.
Maximum Size: The maximum length is 2.5 inches.
Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons or larger tank is appropriate.
Care Level: The Black tetra is a hardy fish. On a scale of 1 –10, (10 being easy) it would rate a “8”.
Tank Conditions: Temperature 75 - 82°F; pH: 4.8 – 8.5.
Description: The common black tetra has a classic tetra body. The pelvic, anal and caudal fins have black coloration. There are typically two black vertical stripes behind the gills. Males are usually smaller and slimmer.
Temperament: Black tetras are small and peaceful fish. They are compatible with other active fish of similar size. Like most tetras it does best in groups.
Diet: Omnivore - They will accept a variety of foods. Feed flakes, along with brine shrimp, bloodworms or frozen foods. A tetra will show its best color after you have owned it for a few months and have given it a high quality diet.
Habitat: Provide with live plants, floating plants, rocks, roots etc with plenty of swimming room for the fish to move around. There should be gentle surface water movement
Lighting: These fish like low light areas of the aquarium.
Compatibility: Black tetra in general can be kept with most other species that can handle the ph and temperature requirements. It is an active fish. It is best to keep in small groups.
Remember that as you look to add more fish to a tank, you will need to increase the tank size. As with all aquarium setups, whether it is fresh or salt, consideration needs to be given to the maintenance of water quality. Too many fish can result in poor water quality that can stress and even kill our fish.
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