Black phantom tetra

The black phantom tetra (Hyphessobrycon megalopterus) is a small freshwater characin of the family Characidae, native to the upper Paraguay and Guaporé river basins of Brazil and Bolivia. It has a smoky grey, tall body with a black, silver-edged blotch behind the gill cover. Males are darker with larger, more elaborate fins, while females show reddish pelvic and anal fins. It is a generally peaceful shoaling fish, though males spar with one another in harmless displays of fin flaring. It should be kept in a group of six or more and mixes well with other peaceful community species. A planted aquarium with soft, slightly acidic water and some open swimming room suits it well. It readily accepts flakes, small pellets, and live or frozen foods. Hardy and undemanding, it is well suited to beginners. Breeding is achievable in soft, acidic water with fine-leaved plants as an egg-scattering medium.