Black Neon Tetra (L)

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi
• Common Name: Black Neon Tetra
• Adult Size: 1.5 inches (approximately 4 cm)
• Life Expectancy: 5 to 7 years
• Habitat: Native to the Paraguay Basin in South America — typically found in slow-moving, acidic blackwater streams rich in plant matter and leaf litter.

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons (ideal in schools of 6 or more)
• Ideal Temperature: 72–79°F (22–26°C)
• pH Range: 5.5–7.5
• Water Hardness: 2–10 dGH
• Temperament: Peaceful — perfect for community tanks. Very social and thrives in groups.

Diet & Nutrition

Omnivorous — feed a mix of:

• High-quality micro pellets or flakes
• Frozen/live foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp, bloodworms

• Occasional vegetable matter (e.g., spirulina flakes)

Feed small amounts once or twice daily.

Breeding & Spawning

• Spawning Type: Egg scatterer
• Breeding Setup: Use a separate tank with soft, slightly acidic water and fine-leaved plants
• Spawning Conditions: Lower light, temperature around 75°F (24°C)

• Eggs Hatch: In about 24–36 hours

• Fry Care: Feed infusoria or liquid fry food, then baby brine shrimp

Appearance

• Body Color: Silver body with a distinct bold black horizontal stripe below a neon-white/blue line running from eye to tail
• Eyes: Prominent with a neon green upper iris

• Body Shape: Slender and torpedo-shaped