The Red Phantom Tetra (Hyphessobrycon sweglesi) is a striking and peaceful freshwater fish, known for its vibrant red coloration and subtle yet beautiful appearance. It is a popular choice for aquarists who seek a small, colorful fish that adds liveliness to their community aquarium without being too demanding in terms of care.
Physical Appearance:
Size: The Red Phantom Tetra is a small fish, typically reaching 1.5-2 inches (4-5 cm) in length, making it a perfect addition to smaller or medium-sized aquariums.
Coloration: The Red Phantom Tetra has a stunning deep red or crimson coloration that intensifies, particularly in males. Its body is semi-transparent with a distinct red hue that covers most of the body and becomes more vivid in certain lighting. The tail and dorsal fins may appear darker, creating a contrast against the red body.
Body Shape: The body is elongated and slender, typical of many tetras. It has a smooth, streamlined shape, allowing for quick and agile swimming.
Eyes: The Red Phantom Tetra has bright, expressive eyes, which adds to its charming appearance.
Behavior:
Peaceful: Red Phantom Tetras are generally peaceful and get along well with other non-aggressive fish. They are ideal for community aquariums with similar-sized, peaceful species.
Schooling: As a schooling fish, the Red Phantom Tetra feels most comfortable when kept in groups of 6 or more. In a well-established school, these fish will swim together, creating a mesmerizing display of color.
Active: These fish are relatively active swimmers, often darting around the middle levels of the tank, but they’re not overly aggressive. They may display some shyness initially but tend to become more active and confident once they settle into their environment.
Habitat Requirements:
Origin: Native to South America, particularly found in the slow-moving streams and rivers of Brazil and other parts of the Amazon Basin.
Water Conditions: The Red Phantom Tetra thrives in slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH range of 6.0-7.5 and a temperature range of 72-80°F (22-27°C). They prefer soft to moderately hard water.
Tank Setup: The tank should be well-planted with soft, gentle filtration and moderate lighting, as they thrive in environments with plenty of hiding spots. Decorations like driftwood, rocks, and plants provide them with places to retreat and reduce stress.
Diet:
Omnivorous: The Red Phantom Tetra is an omnivorous fish and will eat a variety of foods. Its diet can include high-quality flake foods, micro-pellets, live foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms, and vegetable matter like spirulina and blanched spinach. They do best with a varied diet to maintain their vibrant color and overall health.
Lifespan:
With proper care, the Red Phantom Tetra can live for 3-5 years, occasionally longer if kept in ideal conditions.
Care Level:
Beginner-Friendly: The Red Phantom Tetra is relatively easy to care for, making it an excellent choice for beginner aquarists. It requires basic water parameters and routine care, such as regular water changes and a varied diet.
Conclusion:
The Red Phantom Tetra is a beautiful and peaceful addition to any community tank. Its vivid coloration, small size, and easy-going nature make it a favorite among aquarists of all experience levels. With proper care, including maintaining optimal water conditions, a varied diet, and providing a peaceful environment, the Red Phantom Tetra will thrive and bring vibrant energy to your aquarium.
