Tetra – Phantom

Phantom Tetra also known as Black Phantom Petra is a resilient and peaceful schooling fish and a great choice for a community aquarium. Adult size 4.5 cm, min tank size: 40 Litres.

One remarkable characteristic of the Phantom Tetra which makes it a favorite among aquarium hobbyists is their resilience. This quality also makes them ideal for beginning aquarists.

The Phantom Tetra (Megalamphodus megalopterus) comes from northern Paraguay and central Brazil. The black phantom tetra gets its name from its “eye patch” behind the gills as if a phantom is peering back at you. Although the males are mostly a smokey-silver, the females display some brilliant color. If you add these fish to your aquarium you may even get the chance to observe “mock fight” displays between males. No fish are harmed, and the events can be interesting to watch.

Behaviour

Phantom tetras are a very active species, so they do best in a tank that is at least 40 inches in length. It’s a good idea to have a tight-fitting cover, as black phantom tetras can and do jump. Water parameters are not critical and may be soft to hard, acidic to slightly alkaline.

It is not unusual for the mildly hierarchical males to claim small territories and quarrel with other males at the edges of their turf. Tussles can be intriguing to watch, as the behavior involves unusual “mirroring” that sometimes looks like tandem swimming. The battles are minor and pass without injury, however, frequent challenges add to a state of chronic stress that will shorten life spans. If fish are in conflict daily, rebuild your system into a larger tank.

Tank Conditions

Phantoms prefer a well-planted tank (particularly floating plants), subdued lighting, and a dark substrate such as river sand. You may want to include some dried leaves and driftwood in the tank. They may appear quite dull in a poorly arranged aquarium, but a backdrop of rich foliage can bring out the beauty of these water creatures.

One may keep these fishes in pairs or in schools of five. However, it is important to note that these tetras are active swimmers. Hence, it is advisable to place them in a long fish tank, preferably at least 50 cm in length and if possible, with a volume of no less than 75 liters.

Aquariums with soft water and peat-filtering are recommend for these fishes.

Ensure that the tank is safely covered as they are quite the jumpers.

Also, note that these fishes are fit for Nano aquariums but not suitable for the brackish types.

Compatibility

Phantoms do very well with other tetra species, and their relatively dark coloring, in contrast with some of the more spectacularly-colored species, makes them stand out. They are proven to be sociable tank mates and are thus, highly recommended for community tanks.

Feeding

Phantoms are happy omnivorous eaters, and they will accept most foods. It’s important to feed small-sized food and to vary the diet. They readily accept flakes, freeze-dried, and frozen foods in addition to live foods. Micro-pellet foods are suitable as well as any good quality flake that has been crumbled into fine pieces. Frozen or fresh brine shrimp is readily accepted too.

They are not prone to overeating, but they do like to eat a small amount of food several times a day. It is best to feed them what they will eat in about 3 minutes or less, ideally 3 or 4 times a day.

Care

Phantoms have the capacity to adapt superbly well to changes in water condition making them an excellent fish for beginners.  Add tannins to both soften and darken the water or use these soft water conditioner products to simulate the waters of their natural habitat.

Change the water frequently as they are sensitive to poor water quality.  At least 25 to 50% of the tank water should be replaced every other week.

Similar to most fishes, the Phantom Tetra is susceptible to parasitic infestations, bacterial infections, ich as well as skin flukes

See Fish Disease Diagnosis and Treatment at Rebel Pets for help with diagnosing and treating diseases.