Red Phantom Tetra (Hyphessobrycon sweglesi) Import

Red Phantom Tetra (Hyphessobrycon sweglesi)

The Red Phantom Tetra is a peaceful and visually striking freshwater fish, known for its vibrant red body and contrasting black markings. Native to slow-moving rivers and streams in Colombia, this tetra adds a lively pop of color to community aquariums.

Physical Characteristics:

• Size: Grows up to 4 cm (1.5 inches) in length.
• Coloration: Bright red body with a distinct black, oval-shaped spot near the pectoral fin. Males often exhibit a brighter coloration with elongated dorsal fins, while females are slightly rounder and less vibrant.
• Fins: Translucent fins with a reddish hue; males may have white-tipped dorsal fins.

Behavior and Compatibility:

• Temperament: Peaceful and shoaling; thrives in groups of 6 or more.
• Tankmates: Ideal for community tanks with other small, peaceful species like neon tetras, corydoras, rasboras, and dwarf gouramis. Avoid housing with aggressive or fin-nipping species.
• Social Behavior: Shoaling fish that display their best colors and natural behaviors in groups.

Habitat Requirements:

• Tank Size: Minimum of 20 gallons for a group.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 22°C–28°C (72°F–82°F).
  • pH: 5.5–7.5.
  • Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water (up to 12 dGH).
• Substrate: Fine sand or dark gravel to enhance their coloration.
• Environment:
  • Dense planting with fine-leaved plants like Java moss, Amazon swords, or Vallisneria.
  • Include driftwood and leaf litter to replicate their natural habitat.
  • Subdued lighting to mimic the shaded waters of their native streams.

Diet:

• Omnivorous:
  • High-quality flake or pellet food as a staple.
  • Live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms.
  • Occasional vegetable-based foods or spirulina flakes.

Care Tips:

1. Maintain excellent water quality with regular water changes, as they are sensitive to poor conditions.
2. Provide ample plants and hiding spots to reduce stress and encourage natural behaviors.
3. Keep in groups to minimize aggression and enhance their vibrant colors.

Breeding:

• Reproduction: Egg scatterers; females lay eggs over fine-leaved plants.
• Setup: Use a separate breeding tank with soft, slightly acidic water and fine-leaved plants or spawning mops.
• Egg Care: Remove adults after spawning to prevent them from eating the eggs. Eggs hatch within 24–48 hours, and fry become free-swimming after 3–4 days.
• Fry Diet: Feed with infusoria or powdered fry food, transitioning to baby brine shrimp as they grow.

The Red Phantom Tetra is an excellent choice for aquarists seeking a colorful and peaceful fish for a community or planted aquarium. With proper care and the right environment, these tetras will reward you with their vibrant displays and lively group dynamics.