

The Black Neon Tetra (Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi) is a captivating freshwater fish native to the Paraguay basin of southern Brazil. Renowned for its striking appearance, this species features a sleek, dark body accentuated by a vibrant white horizontal stripe and a distinctive red-orange eye. Its peaceful nature and schooling behavior make it an excellent choice for community aquariums.
Scientific Name: Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi
Common Name: Black Neon Tetra
Origin: Paraguay Basin, Southern Brazil
Size: Up to 4 cm (1.5 inches)
Lifespan: 5 years with proper care
Temperament: Peaceful; thrives in schools of 6 or more
Diet: Omnivorous – accepts high-quality flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods
Water Parameters:
Temperature: 23–27°C (73–81°F)
pH Level: 5.5–7.5
Hardness: Up to 6 dGH
Minimum Tank Size: 38 liters (10 gallons).
Striking Appearance: The contrasting black body and bright white stripe create a visually appealing display.
Peaceful Nature: Ideal for community tanks with other non-aggressive species.
Hardy Species: Adaptable to various water conditions, making them suitable for aquarists of all levels.
Active Schooling Behavior: Exhibits lively and synchronized swimming patterns when kept in groups.
Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel to mimic natural habitats.
Decor: Incorporate live plants, driftwood, and rocks to provide hiding spots and reduce stress.
Filtration: Efficient filtration system to maintain high water quality; ensure moderate water flow.
Lighting: Subdued lighting to enhance their coloration and support plant growth.
Tank Cover: Secure lid recommended, as they may jump if startled.
Black Neon Tetras are peaceful and thrive in community setups with similarly sized, non-aggressive species. Suitable companions include:
Dwarf Gouramis
Amano Shrimp
Nerite Snails.
Note: Avoid housing them with larger, aggressive, or fin-nipping species to prevent stress and potential injury.
Staple Diet: High-quality flake or micro-pellet food formulated for tropical fish.
Supplementary Foods: Live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms.
Feeding Frequency: Once or twice daily; offer only as much as they can consume in 2–3 minutes to prevent overfeeding.
Are Black Neon Tetras suitable for beginners?
Yes, their hardy nature and peaceful temperament make them ideal for novice aquarists.
Can they be kept in planted tanks?
Absolutely; they thrive in densely planted aquariums with plenty of hiding spots.
Do they require a heater?
Yes, maintaining a stable temperature between 23–27°C (73–81°F) is ideal.
How many should be kept together?
They are schooling fish and thrive in groups of six or more.
Imagine a shimmering school of Black Neon Tetras darting gracefully through your aquarium, their neon stripes glowing against a backdrop of lush plants. These captivating fish create a dynamic and serene underwater scene, perfect for relaxation and admiration.
At Fish Hut Aqua, we provide premium-quality fish like the Black Neon Tetra, along with expert care advice to help you build and maintain a thriving aquatic environment.
Add the Black Neon Tetra to your aquarium today and enjoy the beauty and energy they bring to your tank!
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