Red phantom tetra
Hyphessobrycon sweglesi
FishFreshwater
- Care level
- Easy
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Recommended tank
- 80 L
- Maximum size
- 4 cm
- Temperature
- 20–26 °C
- pH
- 5.5–7
- Group size
- ≥ 8
- Diet
- Omnivore
Care at a glance
The red phantom tetra is one of the calmest tetras you will find in the shop: deep burgundy with a black shoulder spot and, on the males, a long dorsal fin edged in black. Unlike the black phantom tetra it prefers slightly cooler water; above 26 degrees it fades and does not live as long.
Keep it in a school of at least eight in soft, slightly acidic water with a dark substrate and subdued light, and the red really comes through. It is a good neighbour for corys, dwarf cichlids and other small tetras, but does not belong with boisterous fin nippers or fish that want much warmer water, such as discus.
Related species
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Values are mainstream hobbyist guidance, not gospel — always watch what your own animals need.