The Black Neon Tetra (Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi) is a striking South American shoaling fish native to the upper Paraguay River basin in Brazil. Its slender, olive-grey body features a brilliant silver-white stripe above a deep black band, complemented by a distinctive red and golden eye. This elegant contrast becomes particularly noticeable against dark substrates and dense green planting.
Peaceful and active, Black Neon Tetras are excellent residents for community aquariums containing other small, non-aggressive fish. They should be kept in a group of at least six, although groups of eight or more will display more confident behaviour and create a more impressive shoaling effect. They primarily occupy the middle and upper levels of the aquarium, so provide plenty of open swimming space alongside planted or shaded areas. An aquarium measuring at least 60 cm in length is recommended.
Black Neon Tetras are adaptable and relatively hardy, making them suitable for beginner and experienced fishkeepers. They perform best in stable, clean water with gentle filtration. A planted aquarium with subdued lighting, driftwood, leaf litter and a darker substrate will help recreate their natural appearance and enhance their reflective markings.
Maximum adult size: Approximately 4 cm
Temperament: Peaceful, active and sociable; must be kept in a shoal
Difficulty of care: Easy
Preferred Temperature: 23–27 °C
Preferred pH of water: 5.5–7.5
Type of breeding: Egg-scattering open-water spawner; adults provide no parental care and may eat the eggs. Eggs generally hatch within 24–30 hours under suitable conditions.
Dietary preferences: Omnivorous. Offer good-quality fine flakes or micro-pellets, supplemented with suitably sized frozen or live foods such as Artemia, daphnia and bloodworm. Their natural diet includes worms, small crustaceans and plant material.
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