Black Phantom Tetra

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: Megalamphodus megalopterus
• Common Name: Black Phantom Tetra
• Adult Size: 1.5 to 2 inches (3.5 to 5 cm)
• Life Expectancy: 5 to 6 years (with proper care)
• Habitat: Native to South America, primarily Bolivia and Brazil – found in slow-moving streams and flooded forest areas with dense vegetation and leaf litter.

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 15 gallons (for a small school of 6+)
• Ideal Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)
• pH Range: 6.0–7.5
• Water Hardness: 2–15 dGH
• Temperament: Peaceful, social, and mildly territorial among males — best kept in groups of 6 or more to minimize aggression and bring out natural behavior.

Diet & Nutrition

Omnivorous – accepts a variety of foods:

• Flake food and micro pellets
• Frozen/live foods: bloodworms, daphnia, brine shrimp

• Occasional vegetable matter (spirulina flakes, blanched greens)

Feed small amounts 1–2 times daily.

Breeding & Spawning

• Spawning Type: Egg scatterers
• Breeding Setup: Soft, slightly acidic water with dim lighting and fine-leaved plants or spawning mops
• Spawning Behavior: Males become darker; females plumper
• Eggs Hatch: In about 24–36 hours

• Fry Care: Feed infusoria or liquid fry food initially, then newly hatched brine shrimp

Appearance

• Body Color: Silvery-gray with a prominent black patch (phantom-like) on the sides of the body
• Fins:
  • Males: Elongated, dark dorsal and anal fins

  • Females: More translucent fins with a reddish tint

• Body Shape: Laterally compressed, oval-shaped

Distinctive Features

• Black oval “phantom” spot behind gills
• Elegant, flowing fins in males
• Peaceful schooling fish
• Great for planted community aquariums

• Easy to care for and hardy