Black phantom tetra Breeding Guide

Breeding Process

The Black Phantom Tetra (Hyphessobrycon megalopterus) is a species commonly bred by hobbyists thanks to their moderate breeding difficulty. They are egg scatterers and prefer to breed in a separate tank to increase the chances of successful breeding and to safeguard the eggs. To initiate breeding, start by setting up a separate breeding tank with plenty of plants, such as java moss, where they can scatter their eggs. Ensure the tank is dimly lit to mimic their natural breeding environment. Condition the breeding pair with a protein-rich diet, including live or frozen foods like brine shrimp and bloodworms, to enhance their breeding condition. Stable water parameters are crucial for spawning, with a temperature between 26°C and 28°C and a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0. Once the pair is conditioned, introduce them to the breeding tank. Spawning usually occurs early in the morning.

Care of the Fry

After spawning, it's important to remove the parents from the breeding tank, as they might consume the eggs. The eggs will hatch within 24 to 36 hours. Once the fry are free-swimming, they can be fed infusoria or commercially available liquid fry food initially. As they grow, you can gradually introduce them to freshly hatched brine shrimp and microworms. Maintaining clean water and stable conditions is vital for the healthy development of the fry. Perform regular water changes to keep ammonia and nitrate levels at bay. It's crucial to keep the tank well-maintained but avoid using strong filtration that might draw the fragile fry.

Additional Information

Black Phantom Tetras exhibit social behavior, making them best kept in schools of six or more to reduce stress. They become slightly more aggressive during breeding, so careful monitoring is required to ensure that aggression levels remain manageable within the group. Regular monitoring and providing plenty of hiding spots can help maintain harmony in the tank.