Black Tetra Fish (Gymnocorymbus ternetzi) – Sleek, silver-black schooling fish with elegant fins. Easy to care for and adds dynamic contrast to planted tanks.

The Black Tetra (Gymnocorymbus ternetzi) is a graceful, resilient freshwater fish adored by aquarists for its striking silver-black body and elegantly flowing fins. This schooling fish adds a sophisticated, dynamic contrast to aquariums, making it perfect for planted tanks, community setups, and decorative aquascapes.

Renowned for its peaceful temperament and hardy nature, the Black Tetra is ideal for both beginners and experienced hobbyists. Its calm demeanor allows it to coexist harmoniously with other midwater species, while its sociable schooling behavior provides a mesmerizing visual display that enlivens any freshwater tank.

Whether you’re aiming to create a dramatic monochrome theme or a vibrant planted aquascape, the Black Tetra contributes elegance, movement, and life to your aquatic environment.

🐾 Key Features & Benefits

✔ Sleek Silver-Black Body

The Black Tetra showcases a striking silver-black coloration, giving it a classic, timeless appearance. Its subtle shimmer and flowing fins make it a standout midwater swimmer in both modern and naturalistic aquariums.

✔ Peaceful & Social Schooling Fish

Black Tetras thrive in groups of 6 or more, encouraging natural schooling behavior. Their coordinated swimming adds depth, rhythm, and harmony to your tank, enhancing the overall aesthetic and ensuring a stress-free environment for all inhabitants.

✔ Hardy & Beginner-Friendly

These tetras are adaptable to a wide range of water parameters, making them perfect for novice aquarists. They tolerate small fluctuations in temperature and pH, ensuring they flourish in diverse community tanks.

✔ Active & Dynamic Behavior

Black Tetras are lively yet composed swimmers, constantly exploring their environment without being aggressive. Their presence encourages natural tank dynamics, complementing other peaceful fish like Corydoras, Rasboras, and smaller tetras.

🌱 Black Tetra Care & Habitat

Tank & Environment

• Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons for a small school; larger groups recommended for best visual effect

• Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)

• pH: 6.0–7.5

• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

• Substrate & Decor: Fine gravel or sand; dense plantings, driftwood, and hiding spots enhance natural behavior

• Lighting: Moderate lighting highlights fin contrast and silver sheen

Diet & Feeding

• Omnivorous: Accepts high-quality flakes, micro pellets, live, or frozen foods

• Enjoys brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, and vegetable-based foods

• Feed small amounts 1–2 times daily to maintain vibrant color and health

Behavior & Social Needs

• Peaceful schooling fish, ideal for community aquariums

• Should be kept in groups of at least six to reduce stress and encourage natural swimming

• Avoid housing with large, aggressive species that may bully them

🌿 Aquarium Benefits

• Adds dramatic black-and-silver contrast to planted or mixed-species tanks

• Schooling behavior enhances visual appeal and dynamic movement

• Compatible with a wide range of peaceful community fish

• Long-lived and resilient, offering a rewarding addition for beginners and hobbyists alike

⚠️ Important Notes

• Maintain stable water parameters to prevent stress

• Provide ample swimming space and plants for hiding

• Black Tetras are midwater dwellers; avoid overcrowding

The Black Tetra is not just a fish, it’s a statement of elegance, harmony, and movement for your freshwater aquarium. Its sleek silver-black tones, peaceful schooling nature, and hardy disposition make it a perfect addition to any community or planted tank. A school of Black Tetras will bring refined beauty, natural activity, and lasting enjoyment, whether you are a first-time aquarist or a seasoned enthusiast.