Fin's Fish Guide
The Black phantom tetra (Hyphessobrycon megalopterus) is a freshwater fish of the family Characidae that grows up to 4 cm.
Description
The black phantom tetra is a small characin from fresh water of the upper Paraguay and Guapore basins of South America. The species grows to about 4 cm and has a deep, laterally compressed, greyish body with a conspicuous black, pale-ringed blotch behind the gill; males have large, smoky-black fins. It swims in loose groups in clear, slow streams among water plants and feeds on small zooplankton, insect larvae and plant matter. The fish is popular in the aquarium hobby. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Black phantom tetra?
The Black phantom tetra has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Black light-rimmed shoulder blotch; male with large smoky black fins
Where does the Black phantom tetra live?
The Black phantom tetra lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. South America
How big does the Black phantom tetra get?
The Black phantom tetra grows to a maximum of about 4 cm.
Is the Black phantom tetra dangerous to humans?
No, the Black phantom tetra is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Black phantom tetra edible?
The Black phantom tetra is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Hyphessobrycon
More from the family Characidae
Want the complete picture on the Black phantom tetra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Black phantom tetra is one of 12,519 species in the app.