Black Neon

Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi, also known as Black Neon, is native to South America, where it is found in the upper reaches of the Rio Paraguay and other waters of the Mato Grosso region. There it stays mainly in areas near the banks with dense vegetation so that it can hide in case of danger. The two horizontal stripes along the side of the body that are typical of the species – one iridescent metallic blue to light yellow, the other deep black – form a beautiful contrast to each other and to the gray-silver base color.

Care in the aquarium

The Black Neon is a robust fish species with a relatively long life expectancy. A lot of freedom of movement is an important prerequisite for the species-appropriate care of this animal, as it is very lively. We therefore recommend an aquarium with a volume of at least 80 liters. Furthermore, the Black Neon should be kept with at least 10 members of its species because it is a schooling fish. In order for it to feel comfortable, it needs a slight water current, dense edge planting that leaves enough free swimming space, and a dark substrate. This extremely peaceful fish can also be socialized with other peaceful fish. The Black Neon is not too difficult to maintain. The water should be rather soft (< 15°dGH) and the pH value should be between 5.5 and 7.5.

Feeding

In nature, the Black Neon feeds on small crustaceans, worms and plant material. In the aquarium, feeding this omnivorous (all-eating) fish is not very complicated: live and frozen food as well as fine flake and granular food are readily accepted.

Sexual characteristics and breeding

The males differ from the females in their slightly slimmer physique. When fully grown, the females, which grow up to 4cm long, are also slightly larger than the males. The Black Neon can be bred successfully in the aquarium with soft and rather acidic water. This species of tetra reaches sexual maturity after around 10-12 months. The optimal breeding values ​​are a hardness below 6°dGH and a temperature around 27°C. Tetras are free spawners, so the eggs are released and fertilized freely between preferably fine-feathered plants or mosses. Since this species is a spawning predator and does not stop at its own offspring, there should be a separate breeding tank from which the parents are removed immediately after spawning. The first feeding of the young fish, which hatch after about 24-30 hours, takes place after about 4-5 days (after the yolk sac has been consumed) with the smallest food such as dust food or infusoria.