Black Neon Tetra

A familiar aquarium resident for decades, the Black neon is an adaptable species found in both forest streams and extensive seasonal floodwaters in the wild. Whether tinted blackwater or clear, these habitats tend to feature running water and the cover of waterlogged debris or aquatic plants. The bold white and black lines serve to keep fish in contact with one another in turbid water and although they often occur alongside other tetras they will usually shoal discreetly in aquaria, making them a great contrast to other tetras such as Cardinals.

Wild fish tend to live in soft, acidic water but their domestic relatives are happy to live in mature tap water in most parts of the country as long as extremes are avoided. As a sociable shoaling species, they should always be kept in groups of at least six or more, with large shoals being particularly impressive where space allows.

Although the familiarity of this fish makes it easy to overlook, Black neons are an excellent choice for biotope aquaria or aquascapes where the impact of a monochrome shoal serves to highlight the beauty of the planting. Peaceful in a community aquarium, adults are bulky enough to combine with species likely to eat smaller tetras but care should be taken when mixing smaller juveniles with larger tankmates.

As well as the commonly seen wild form and an albino version, the Brilliant or Diamond strain may be encountered. This variety lacks the white stripe but has more reflective scales in the head region.