Black Neon Tetra (Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi) is an exceptionally attractive, peaceful, and hardy schooling fish, making it a perfect choice for both beginners and experienced aquarists. With its elegant colors, it brings life and dynamic movement to any well-established community or planted aquarium.

This stunning tetra reaches a length of about 3-4 cm and features a characteristic dark black stripe running along its entire body, topped by a brilliant bright green to bluish iridescent line. These contrasting hues stand out incredibly well against a dark substrate and a lushly planted aquascape.

Key Features:

• Scientific Name: Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi
• Origin: South America (Brazil)
• Size: Up to 3-4 cm
• Temperament: Peaceful, ideal for community tanks
• Minimum Tank Size: 60 liters (recommended for a proper school)
• Schooling: Social fish, must be kept in groups of at least 8-10 individuals

Care and Habitat Requirements:

The Black Neon Tetra prefers soft to moderately hard water with a slightly acidic reaction. Optimal parameters include:

• Water Temperature: 22°C – 26°C (72°F – 79°F)
• pH: 6.0 – 7.0
• Water Hardness: 5 - 15°dGH

To feel secure and display their best colors, these fish require gentle water flow, shaded areas created by floating plants, and a darker substrate. Ensure there is also plenty of open swimming space in the mid-water regions.

Diet:

Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi is an omnivore. In the aquarium, it readily accepts high-quality flake foods, micro pellets, as well as live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and cyclops.

Compatible with other peaceful species like Corydoras catfish, dwarf cichlids, and other small tetras, the Black Neon Tetra is a wonderful addition to any freshwater community setup.