Yellow Phantom Tetra

🐠 Yellow Phantom Tetra (Hyphessobrycon roseus)

Common Names: Yellow Phantom, Roseus Tetra
Origin: South America (Paraguay, Bolivia, Brazil)
Adult Size: 1.5–2 inches (3.5–5 cm)
Lifespan: 4–5 years

🔹 Temperament & Behavior

• Peaceful schooling fish.
• Best kept in groups of 6+ to reduce shyness and bring out natural behavior.
• Males show stronger yellow coloration and extended fins.
• Active mid–upper level swimmers, good for community aquariums.

🔹 Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons
• Water Parameters:
  • Temp: 72–82 °F (22–28 °C)
  • pH: 6.0–7.5
  • Hardness: 2–12 dGH
• Setup: Heavily planted tank with open swimming areas. Dark substrate and subdued lighting enhance color.

🔹 Tankmates

• Ideal with peaceful species: rasboras, gouramis, dwarf cichlids, Corydoras, loaches.
• Avoid fin-nippers or overly aggressive fish.

🔹 Diet

• Omnivore.
• Eats quality flakes, micro-pellets, frozen/live foods (daphnia, brine shrimp, bloodworms).
• Variety in diet deepens yellow coloration.

🔹 Breeding

• Egg scatterer among fine-leaved plants.
• Adults do not guard eggs; remove parents after spawning.
• Fry require infusoria or liquid fry food until large enough for baby brine shrimp.

✨ Fun fact: Unlike the more common Red Phantom, the Yellow Phantom Tetra glows with golden tones, making it an eye-catching schooling fish for planted setups.