Black Phantom Tetra (Megalamphodus megalopterus)

The Black Phantom Tetra (Megalamphodus megalopterus) is a beautiful and peaceful freshwater fish native to South America, particularly the river systems of Brazil and Bolivia. Known for its smoky silver-grey body, distinctive black markings, and elegant fins, this small schooling fish is a popular choice for planted aquariums and peaceful community tanks.

Active, peaceful, and relatively easy to care for, the Black Phantom Tetra looks especially attractive when kept in a proper group. Males often display their fins and perform harmless territorial dances with one another, adding interesting natural behavior to the aquarium.

What We Like About This Fish

• Distinctive black and silver-grey coloration
• Elegant and attractive finnage
• Peaceful community fish
• Excellent schooling and social behavior
• Interesting male display behavior
• Ideal for planted and natural-style aquariums
• Relatively easy to care for

Recommended Tank Parameters

• Tank Size: Minimum 60 liters (15 gallons)
• Temperature: 22–28°C (72–82°F)
• pH: 6.0–7.5
• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard
• Water Flow: Gentle to moderate

A well-planted aquarium with driftwood, shaded areas, and open swimming space provides an ideal environment for Black Phantom Tetras. Floating plants and subdued lighting can help create a more natural environment and encourage their best coloration and behavior.

Care Guidelines

Diet: Omnivorous. Feed a varied diet of high-quality flakes and micro pellets supplemented with frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, daphnia, and brine shrimp. Small, regular meals help maintain good health and coloration.

Social Behavior: Peaceful and social. Black Phantom Tetras should be kept in groups of at least 6, with larger groups providing more natural schooling behavior and increased confidence. They are suitable for peaceful community aquariums with similarly sized, non-aggressive tank mates.

Origin

South America – Brazil and Bolivia

Average Adult Size

Approximately 4–5 cm (1.5–2 inches)

Average Purchase Size

Approximately 2–3 cm (0.8–1.2 inches)

Schooling Fish

Yes. Black Phantom Tetras are social schooling fish and should ideally be kept in groups of 6 or more.

Shrimp Safe

Mostly yes with adult shrimp. They are generally compatible with adult dwarf shrimp, but may eat newly hatched shrimp and very small shrimplets when given the opportunity.

The Black Phantom Tetra is an excellent choice for aquarists looking for a peaceful, active, and distinctive schooling fish. With a suitable group, planted aquarium, stable water quality, and a varied diet, these attractive tetras can become a beautiful addition to a peaceful community aquarium.