Red Phantom Tetra

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Description

Red Phantom Tetra (Hyphessobrycon sweglesi)

The Red Phantom Tetra is a beautifully colored, peaceful freshwater fish that brings a burst of color to any aquarium. Native to the Orinoco River basin in South America, these social tetras are well-suited to community tanks with similarly sized, peaceful tank mates.

Appearance:
Red Phantom Tetras have a compressed, slightly rounded body with a predominantly red coloration. Males exhibit a more intense red hue, while females are often paler with a rounder body shape. Their fins are mostly transparent, with the dorsal fin having a tinge of red or black, depending on the individual.

Personality:
These tetras are peaceful, social fish that enjoy the company of their own kind. They are active swimmers and will often school together, making them a delightful sight in the aquarium.

Tank Habitat and Care:
A well-planted tank with plenty of hiding spots and swimming space is ideal for Red Phantom Tetras. They prefer soft, slightly acidic water with good filtration and frequent water changes. A dark substrate can help intensify their colors.

Diet:
Red Phantom Tetras are omnivorous and will accept a variety of foods, such as high-quality flake food, freeze-dried, and frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia. Supplement their diet with vegetable matter, like blanched spinach or spirulina, for optimal health.

To learn more about this fish, be sure to check out the Additional Information tab.

Additional information
Common Names

Red Phantom Tetra

Scientific Name

Hyphessobrycon sweglesi

Family

Characidae

Origin

South America

Care

Easy

Diet

Omnivore

Tank Mate Compatibility

Peaceful

Schooling Fish

Yes

Minimum Group Size

6

Preferred Swimming Level

Middle

Adult Size

1 – 2 inches

Average Lifespan

3 – 5 years

Minimum Aquarium Size

10 gallons and up

Community Aquarium Size

20 gallons and up

pH

5.5 – 7.5

Hardness

4 – 12 dGH

Temperature

72 – 79°F (22 – 26°C)