Longfin Black Skirt Tetra (Gymnocorymbus ternetzi) - Live Fish

Physical Appearance:

• Size: The Longfin Black Skirt Tetra typically grows to about 2-2.5 inches (5-6 cm) in length, making it a small to medium-sized fish that fits well in a variety of aquarium sizes.
• Coloration: The Longfin Black Skirt Tetra has a shiny, black body with a subtle metallic sheen, which gives it an elegant, almost iridescent appearance. The black coloration can sometimes have a slight blue or greenish tint under the right lighting, adding depth to its beauty.
• Fins: The most distinctive feature of this variety is its long, flowing fins. The dorsal, anal, and caudal fins are significantly longer and more graceful compared to the regular Black Skirt Tetra, creating a dramatic, veil-like effect as the fish swims. These elongated fins enhance its elegant appearance.
• Body Shape: The body is slender and streamlined, which allows for graceful and swift movements through the water, characteristic of most tetra species.

Behavior:

• Peaceful: Like most tetras, the Longfin Black Skirt Tetra is a peaceful fish that gets along well with other non-aggressive species. It’s an excellent addition to community aquariums, as it does not exhibit territorial or aggressive behavior.
• Schooling Fish: This tetra is a schooling fish and should be kept in groups of at least 6 or more to feel secure and display natural behaviors. They tend to swim in the middle and upper levels of the tank, often seen together in small groups.
• Active: These fish are fairly active swimmers, darting around the tank and often displaying their long fins in the water, which creates a beautiful, fluid movement within the aquarium.

Habitat Requirements:

• Origin: Native to the Amazon River Basin and other South American rivers.
• Water Conditions: The Longfin Black Skirt 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: A planted aquarium with open swimming spaces is ideal for the Longfin Black Skirt Tetra. They enjoy moderate lighting and benefit from the presence of live plants and decorative rocks or driftwood, which also provide them with hiding spots when needed. While they do not require strong water movement, gentle filtration is recommended to maintain water quality.

Diet:

• Omnivorous: The Longfin Black Skirt Tetra is an omnivore and will eat a variety of foods. Their diet can include high-quality flake foods, micro-pellets, and live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia. They also enjoy plant-based foods, such as spirulina or finely chopped vegetables.

Lifespan:

• With proper care, Longfin Black Skirt Tetras typically live for 3-5 years, and they can thrive even longer with optimal tank conditions.

Care Level:

• Beginner-Friendly: Due to their hardiness, peaceful nature, and simple care requirements, Longfin Black Skirt Tetras are suitable for beginners and experienced aquarists alike.

Conclusion:

The Longfin Black Skirt Tetra is an elegant and visually stunning fish that brings both beauty and movement to any aquarium. Its graceful, flowing fins and striking black coloration make it a standout in community tanks, and its peaceful temperament allows it to coexist with a variety of other fish. With proper care, this fish thrives in well-maintained tanks and provides aquarium owners with a long-lasting and captivating addition.