Black Skirt Tetra
Gymnocorymbus ternetzi
Beginner
Freshwater
Peaceful when kept in a group, but may nip the fins of slow‑moving fish. Semi‑aggressive when kept in small numbers.
Characidae
Max Size
57.0 cm (22.4")
Min Tank
80 L (21 gal)
Min Group
6+
Diet
Voracious omnivore. Flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia. Excellent appetite.
Water Parameters
Temperature
20.0-28.0°C
68-82°F
pH
6.0-8.0
Hardness (dGH)
5.0-20.0
Min Tank Size
80 L
21 gal
About
The Black Tetra is one of the most iconic tetras in the hobby. Flat body with silver coloration and black bars (juveniles) to uniform gray (adults). Robust and ideal for beginners.
Behavior & Temperament
Peaceful when kept in a group, but may nip the fins of slow‑moving fish. Semi‑aggressive when kept in small numbers.
Feeding
Voracious omnivore. Flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia. Excellent appetite.
Breeding
Egg-layer. Prolific egg scatterer. One of the easiest tetras to breed.
Care Notes
Very hardy. Tolerates a wide range of parameters. Keep in groups.
Compatibility
Good for community tanks with similarly sized fish. Avoid long-finned tank mates.
Quick Summary
| Scientific Name | Gymnocorymbus ternetzi |
|---|---|
| Family | Characidae |
| Category | Fish |
| Care Level | Beginner |
| Water Type | Freshwater |
| Max Size | 57.0 cm (22.4") |
| Min Tank | 80 L (21 gal) |
| Min Group | 6+ |
| Diet | Voracious omnivore. Flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia. Excellent appetite. |
| Temperament | Peaceful when kept in a group, but may nip the fins of slow‑moving fish. Semi‑aggressive when kept in small numbers. |
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