Black Neon Tetra – Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi
The Black Neon Tetra (Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi) is a peaceful freshwater schooling fish known for its sleek silver body, bold black stripe, and bright white upper stripe. This classic community fish adds clean contrast, steady movement, and a calm schooling presence to planted aquariums.
Hardy, active, and beginner-friendly, Black Neon Tetras are excellent choices for peaceful community tanks, aquascapes, and planted freshwater setups. Their darker coloration stands out beautifully against green plants, natural driftwood, and lighter substrates.
Key Features
- Peaceful freshwater schooling fish
- Silver body with bold black-and-white horizontal striping
- Great for planted aquariums and community tanks
- Hardy and beginner-friendly with proper care
- Active group behavior adds movement to the aquarium
- Excellent contrast fish for aquascaping layouts
Care Guide
- Scientific Name: Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi
- Common Name: Black Neon Tetra
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Adult Size: Approximately 1.5 inches
- Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons or larger recommended
- Water Temperature: 72–80°F
- pH Range: 6.0–7.5
- Diet: Omnivore
Why Choose Black Neon Tetras?
Black Neon Tetras are a great choice for aquarists who want a peaceful, easy-care schooling fish with a more subtle look than brightly colored tetras. Their black-and-white stripe pattern gives them a clean, elegant appearance that works well in both natural and heavily planted aquariums.
They are best kept in groups, where they feel more secure and display natural schooling behavior. A group of 6 or more is recommended, with larger groups creating an even better display.
Ideal Tank Setup
Black Neon Tetras do best in a stable, fully cycled aquarium with live plants, open swimming space, and gentle to moderate filtration. Driftwood, floating plants, and shaded areas can help create a comfortable environment while allowing their striping to stand out.
Maintain clean, stable water and avoid sudden changes in temperature or pH. These fish are peaceful and should be kept with other calm community species.
Compatible Tankmates
- Other peaceful tetras
- Rasboras
- Corydoras catfish
- Pygmy Corydoras
- Small peaceful gouramis
- Otocinclus
- Peaceful livebearers
- Shrimp with proper cover
- Snails
Diet & Feeding
Black Neon Tetras are omnivores and accept a wide variety of small aquarium foods. Feed quality flakes, micro pellets, frozen baby brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, and other appropriately sized foods.
A varied diet helps support color, activity, and long-term health. Feed small portions that the group can eat quickly.
Care Tips
- Keep in groups of 6 or more
- Provide plants and open swimming space
- Maintain stable water conditions
- Use peaceful tankmates only
- Feed small, varied foods
- Avoid aggressive or fin-nipping fish
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Black Neon Tetras good for beginners?
Yes. Black Neon Tetras are hardy, peaceful, and beginner-friendly when kept in a properly cycled aquarium with stable water conditions.
How many Black Neon Tetras should I keep together?
Keep at least 6 or more for best schooling behavior, confidence, and reduced stress.
Are Black Neon Tetras peaceful?
Yes. They are peaceful schooling fish and do well with other calm community tankmates.
Are Black Neon Tetras good for planted tanks?
Yes. They look excellent in planted aquariums, especially against green plants, driftwood, and natural backgrounds.
What do Black Neon Tetras eat?
They eat quality flakes, micro pellets, frozen foods, and small live foods. A varied diet is best for color and health.
How big do Black Neon Tetras get?
They typically reach approximately 1.5 inches as adults.
Are these fish available for shipping?
No. Live fish are available for in-store purchase or local pickup only at Tropical Treasures Wyo in Cheyenne, Wyoming.
Available at Tropical Treasures Wyo
Black Neon Tetras are peaceful schooling fish for planted aquariums, aquascapes, and freshwater community tanks. Visit Tropical Treasures Wyo in Cheyenne, Wyoming, to shop tetras, freshwater fish, shrimp, snails, live aquarium plants, fish food, filtration supplies, and aquarium care products. Live livestock is available for in-store purchase or local pickup only.
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