Red phantom tetra Care Guide

The Red Phantom Tetra (Hyphessobrycon sweglesi) is a beautiful and popular freshwater fish that is easy to care for, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced aquarists. With their peaceful temperament and stunning red coloration, these tetras can be a delightful addition to any community aquarium.

Tank Setup

For optimal living conditions, maintain a tank temperature between 22°C and 28°C and a pH level ranging from 5.8 to 7.5. As these fish are social creatures, it is recommended to keep them in schools of at least six, with a ratio of two liters of water for each fish. Ensure the tank has ample space for mid-tank, surface, and bottom dwelling, as Red Phantom Tetras are active swimmers that utilize all levels.

Include plenty of hiding spots and decorations using plants, driftwood, and rocks to mimic their natural habitat and reduce stress. Adding fine-leaved plants can also serve as potential spawning sites. Moderate to low lighting conditions are preferable to simulate their native environments.

Feeding

Red Phantom Tetras thrive on a varied diet that includes flakes, pellets, and a range of live and freeze-dried foods. Foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, tubifex worms, vegetable matter, and daphnia are beneficial in maintaining their health and enhancing their coloration. Incorporating occasional treats like frozen shrimp and algae wafers is also recommended. Ensure their diet is balanced for optimal health, and feed them small portions that they can consume within a few minutes to avoid overfeeding.

Behavior and Compatibility

Red Phantom Tetras are mostly peaceful and exhibit mild territorial behavior, particularly during breeding periods when aggression may slightly increase. They coexist well with other non-aggressive species, making them a suitable choice for community tanks. Their playful and social nature often positively impacts the overall activity in the tank.

Maintenance

The care level of Red Phantom Tetras is considered low maintenance, though maintaining good water quality is crucial. Regular water changes and monitoring of water parameters help in sustaining their health and coloration. Aim to keep the tank clean and functioning properly to provide a healthy environment for your tetras.

Considerations

Although the Red Phantom Tetra is classified as having a delicate hardiness, with appropriate care, it can thrive in well-maintained aquariums. Prized for their beauty and relatively low difficulty of care, these tetras are moderately affordable and are considered popular among aquarists. While their conservation status is listed as "Least Concern," it's important to source them responsibly to avoid adding pressure on wild populations.