Black Phantom Tetra - (No Online Purchases)

Name: Black Phantom Tetra - Pick Up In Store Only

Scientific Name: Megalamphodus megalopterus — formerly Hyphessobrycon megalopterus.

Description: An attractive, peaceful tetra with a smoky silver-grey body and a prominent black shoulder patch edged with a pale shimmer. Mature males develop larger, dark dorsal and anal fins, while females often show reddish colouring on their lower fins. Males perform impressive fin-flaring displays that rarely result in injury.

Origin: South America; the upper Paraguay and Madeira river systems in Brazil and Bolivia.

pH: Approximately 6.0–7.5; prefers soft to moderately hard water.

Temperature: Around 22–27°C.

Adult Size: Approximately 4–5 cm.

Lifespan: Approximately 3–5 years with good care.

Food: Omnivorous. Feed quality tropical flakes or micro pellets, supplemented with frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, cyclops and occasional bloodworms.

Compatibility: Excellent with small, peaceful community fish such as other gentle tetras, rasboras, pencilfish and Corydoras. Keep in groups of at least eight, preferably ten or more, with both males and females. Avoid large, aggressive or overly boisterous tank mates.

Habitat: Provide an established freshwater aquarium with planted areas, driftwood, shaded retreats and open swimming space. A dark substrate and floating plants help show their markings and encourage confident behaviour. Maintain gentle to moderate filtration, good oxygenation and regular partial water changes.