Black Phantom Tetra
Megalamphodus megalopterus
Description
The Black Phantom Tetra is a small, peaceful fish known for its striking black coloration and elegant fins. The male Black Phantom Tetra typically displays more vivid coloration, with a dark body and a black triangular patch on the rear portion of the body. Females are generally larger and less intense in coloration, but they still possess a subtle dark coloration, with hints of silver or gold. They have a streamlined, elongated body, with a noticeable dark stripe running diagonally from the gill cover to the tail. The Black Phantom Tetra’s peaceful nature and unique coloration make it a popular choice for aquariums. They are social, schooling fish that feel most secure in groups and often swim in the middle to upper areas of the tank.
Habitat Origin
Native to the Rio Paraguay and Rio Paraná river systems in South America, particularly in areas of Brazil and Paraguay. They are found in slow-moving waters with submerged vegetation and plenty of hiding spots.
Aquarium
Ideal Number in Aquarium: At least 6 individuals, as they are schooling fish and feel more secure in groups.
Favorite Food
Black Phantom Tetras are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods. They enjoy high-quality flake food, micro pellets, and live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia. They may also nibble on algae and small plant matter in the tank. Providing a balanced diet with both protein and plant-based food will help maintain their health and vibrant colors.
Behavior:
Black Phantom Tetras are peaceful and non-aggressive. They are schooling fish and feel most secure when kept in groups of at least 6 individuals. They are generally active and lively, swimming in the middle to upper levels of the tank. While they are peaceful, they can be a bit shy if kept alone or in small groups, and they may be intimidated by larger or more aggressive fish. Their schooling behavior and attractive coloration are most pronounced when they are kept with similar-sized, peaceful tankmates.
Special Care:
Black Phantom Tetras prefer a well-planted tank with plenty of hiding spots, such as plants, driftwood, and rocks. They thrive in stable water conditions, so regular water changes and good filtration are important. These fish are relatively hardy but benefit from a stable environment with moderate water flow and a slightly acidic to neutral pH. They should not be exposed to strong currents or large, aggressive species that might stress them.
Compatibility with Other Fish:
Yes, Black Phantom Tetras are ideal for community tanks with other small, peaceful fish, such as other tetras, rasboras, and corydoras. Due to their calm nature, they should be housed with other non-aggressive species. Larger or more aggressive fish should be avoided, as they may intimidate or harass the Black Phantom Tetra. Their peaceful nature and schooling habits make them a great addition to a peaceful community setup.
Breeding Tank Setup
Using a separate breeding tank is highly recommended for Black Phantom Tetras to protect the eggs and provide better water control. A 10-gallon tank (38 liters) is sufficient for a pair or small group, while a 20-gallon (75 liters) tank is more suitable for multiple pairs. Maintain a pH of 6.0–7.5, temperature between 24–28°C (75–82°F), and hardness of 4–12 dGH. Add fine gravel or sand substrate, along with live plants like Java moss, Hornwort, or Anubias to create spawning sites and shelter. Floating plants such as Duckweed also help reduce stress. Use a sponge filter or gentle internal filter to keep the water clean without creating strong currents. Apply moderate lighting on a 12-hour day/night cycle.
Conditioning the Breeders
Before breeding, feed Black Phantom Tetras a high-protein, balanced diet to encourage readiness. Include quality flakes or micro pellets, live or frozen foods like daphnia, brine shrimp, or bloodworms, and vegetable matter such as finely chopped spinach. A rich diet ensures optimal egg development and enhances male coloration. Perform weekly 20–30% water changes for stability. A larger 50% water change paired with a slight temperature increase to 28°C (82°F) can simulate the rainy season, which may trigger breeding.
Spawning Behavior
Spawning typically takes place in the early morning, especially after environmental conditions improve. Males display brighter coloration and court the females, who then scatter their 30–100 small, sticky eggs throughout the tank. These eggs often adhere to plant leaves, substrate, or decorations. As Black Phantom Tetras may consume their own eggs, it is important to remove the adults immediately after spawning to ensure successful hatching.
Fry Hatching & Care
Eggs usually hatch within 2–3 days, depending on water temperature. Initially, fry survive on their yolk sacs for nourishment. Once they begin free-swimming, feed them infusoria or liquid fry food, followed by baby brine shrimp, microworms, or finely crushed flakes as they grow. Maintain excellent water quality by performing 10–20% water changes daily or every other day. Avoid overfeeding to prevent water pollution, and keep temperature stable within the optimal range.
Breeding Age, Sexing & Stress Prevention
Black Phantom Tetras reach sexual maturity at 6–12 months. Males are slimmer and more colorful, often displaying red accents on their fins during breeding, while females are larger, rounder, and more subdued in color. Avoid stressing the fish by keeping water parameters stable and avoiding aggressive tank mates. Regular maintenance, proper feeding, and a peaceful environment are key to successful breeding and fry survival.