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Freshwater fish care guide

Black Phantom Tetra

Hyphessobrycon megalopterus

Keep a well-sized school with plant cover and open swimming space; may eat tiny shrimp.

Starter tank20+ gal
Temperature70–82°F
pH6–7.5
Group guide8+

Planning your aquarium

The library starting point is 20+ US gallons. Plan for the approximate 1.8-inch adult size and the species' normal activity, not just its current shop size.

The library suggests a group of at least 8. Count every individual when estimating stocking and swimming room.

Mixed-species aquariums may need substantially more space. Tank length, adult behavior, filtration, and hiding spaces all matter.

Tank setup and behavior

  • Include planting or cover without removing all open swimming space.

Keep a well-sized school with plant cover and open swimming space; may eat tiny shrimp.

Food and feeding

Food options: Fine tropical flakes, Micro pellets, Frozen daphnia.

Use appropriately sized, complete staple foods and rotate suitable foods for variety. Feed modest portions and remove uneaten food.

Compatibility

The current rule-based checker does not list a dedicated pairing warning for this species. That does not mean every pairing is safe; review temperament, adult size, diet, habitat and water requirements.