Tropical ornamental fish species such as the Neon Tetra and Cardinal Tetra are among the most popular of all freshwater fish, adding a touch of brilliance and social interaction to the community aquarium. Besides two tetra types above, the Black Neon Tetra (Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi) also one of the aquarium fish species with a most beautiful and unusual coloration. And like other Tetras, the Black Neon Tetra do best in a well-planted aquarium with moderate lighting.
The body of the iridescent Black Neon Tetra is an elegant blend of deep obsidian black paired with a contrasting bright, neon horizontal stripe of yellow-green. A fluorescent orange marking above its eyes completes the telltale markings of the Black Neon Tetra. Praised for its peaceful nature, the Black Neon Tetra is a great addition to any soft water community aquarium.
The distinct coloration of the Black Neon Tetra complements the shaded green and yellow hues of most freshwater plants. In turn, the plants offer hiding places for the Black Neon Tetra. The addition of rocks and driftwood also help mirror its natural habitat. The Black Neon Tetra thrives in slightly acidic water and will do best when water parameters are kept constant. Black Neon Tetra is a schooling fish and will do best if kept in odd numbers of 5 or more.
Feeding: Black Neon Tetras will accept many small foods such as brine shrimp or daphnia, freeze-dried bloodworms and tubifex, micro pellet food, and a high quality flake food.
To breed Black Neon Tetras or Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi , separate a pair into a "breeder tank" with no lighting at first, and then gradually increase light levels until spawning occurs. To encourage breeding, water hardness should be less than 4 KH. Live foods such as mosquito larvae are another great inducer. Be sure to remove the adult Black Neon Tetra after the eggs have been laid, as they will eat the eggs. The eggs should hatch within 30 hours.
