Black Phantom Tetra 3/3.5
Black Phantom Tetra 3/3.5 are peaceful, schooling tetras with a smoky black body and distinctive “phantom” patch that looks amazing in a planted community aquarium. These Black Phantom Tetras are around 3–3.5cm and really shine when kept in a group, making them ideal for calm, well‑filtered community tanks.
Appearance and Size
- Species: Black Phantom Tetra (Hyphessobrycon megalopterus)
- Colour: translucent grey to smoky black body with a dark “phantom” patch behind the gill
- Fins: males often show more extended, darker fins; females tend to be rounder in body
- Size at sale: approximately 3–3.5cm
- Adult size: stays small, ideal for community tanks
Tank Requirements for Black Phantom Tetra 3/3.5
- Tank size: from at least 2ft+ for a small group, larger is better for bigger shoals
- Décor: planted aquariums with open swimming space and some shaded or darker areas
- Filtration: gentle to moderate flow with good biological filtration
- Substrate: sand or fine gravel, with driftwood, plants and leaf litter for a natural look
Water Parameters (Guide Only)
- Temperature: around 23–27°C
- pH: roughly 6.0–7.5
- Hardness: soft to moderately hard water
- Ammonia & Nitrite: 0 ppm
- Nitrate: kept low with regular water changes
Feeding Black Phantom Tetra
- Quality micro pellets or fine flakes for small tropical fish
- Frozen or live foods such as baby brine shrimp, daphnia and finely chopped bloodworms
- Occasional vegetable‑based or spirulina‑rich foods
Behaviour and Tank Mates
- Behaviour: active mid‑water swimmers, with males often displaying to each other
- Temperament: generally peaceful, ideal for calm community setups
- Best kept: in shoals of at least 6–8 Black Phantom Tetra 3/3.5
Important Notes
- Always introduce Black Phantom Tetra 3/3.5 to a mature, cycled aquarium.
- Keep them in groups for best colour, confidence and natural schooling behaviour.
- Regular maintenance and good filtration help keep this species healthy long‑term.
Black Phantom Tetra 3/3.5



