Black Phantom Tetra
Characidae sp.
Black Phantom Tetra (Characidae sp.) — Easy care, Peaceful, under Tetra & Characin. Minimum tank in the app: 17.2 US gal min; aim for 70–82°F and pH 5.5–7.5. The Black Phantom Tetra is ideal for community tanks seeking lively mid-water activity and vibrant shoaling behavior.

Captive lifespan reflects typical experience in a home aquarium, not maximum recorded age; genetics, sourcing, and care vary.
Natural distribution
Mostly South America
- South America
Regional colours match the stocking calculator’s origin map.
Black Phantom Tetra Tank Setup
A well-planned tank for Black Phantom Tetras should prioritize open swimming areas complemented by dense vegetation and hiding spots, which provide security and promote natural behavior. Utilize a soft substrate to mimic their natural habitat, and ensure gentle water flow with subdued lighting to encourage vibrant colors and active behavior. Consider vertical space to accommodate their mid-water swimming habits.
What Do Black Phantom Tetras Eat?
Feeding Black Phantom Tetras requires attention to their diet of micro foods, as they can be outcompeted by faster or larger fish. They thrive on a varied diet that includes quality flakes, small pellets, and occasional live or frozen foods to enhance their coloration and health.
Black Phantom Tetra Tank Mates
These tetras coexist harmoniously with similarly-sized peaceful species, such as small rasboras, dwarf cichlids, and other gentle tetras. Larger or boisterous fish can intimidate them, leading to stress, while intraspecies dynamics flourish in groups; aim for at least six to maintain social structure and reduce stress. Avoid mixing with fin-nippers or overly aggressive species to ensure a tranquil environment.
Are Black Phantom Tetras Good for Beginners?
In App-aquatic we file this under easy care. That still means a cycled tank, realistic stocking, and parameters that do not swing every weekend. Aquarists often underestimate the importance of keeping them in groups, leading to stress and lethargy. neglecting water quality can result in dull coloration and health issues, as these tetras are sensitive to fluctuations in pH and temperature.
Building a community? Run the full list through the stocking calculator before you add anything else.
Log tests and reminders in App-aquatic—free, same data you see here.




