Why is my Black Neon Tetra losing its colour?

Colour loss is usually a sign of stress. This can be caused by poor water quality, inappropriate lighting, or a lack of security in the tank (such as not having a large enough shoal or hiding places). Ensure your water parameters are stable and provide plenty of cover.

Are Black Neon Tetras related to normal Neon Tetras?

While both are small characins from South America, they belong to different genera. The Black Neon is a Hyphessobrycon species, whereas the standard Neon Tetra belongs to the Paracheirodon genus.

How many Black Neon Tetras should I keep together?

They are a schooling fish and should be kept in a minimum group of 6. However, larger groups of 10 or more are highly recommended, as the fish will feel more secure and display more natural, impressive schooling behaviours.

Can Black Neon Tetras live with Betta fish?

They can often share a tank with a Betta, but caution is advised. While Black Neons are peaceful, they are active swimmers and might outcompete a slow Betta for food, or a particularly aggressive Betta might chase them. A larger tank with plenty of plants increases the chances of success.

Do Black Neon Tetras need a heater?

Yes, they are tropical fish originating from South America. They require a stable water temperature between 22°C and 27°C, which necessitates an aquarium heater in most homes.

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FreshwaterTropicalBeginner

Black Neon Tetra

Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi

A striking and hardy shoaling fish, the Black Neon Tetra offers a beautiful contrast of deep black and iridescent silver-green lines for the community aquarium.

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Ideal Conditions

Temperature: 22 – 27 °C
pH range: 5 – 7.5
Hardness: 1 – 12 dGH
Adult size: 3 – 4 cm
Standard 60cm tank: 60 litres+
Lifespan: 3 – 5 years
Diet: Omnivore
Water flow: gentle to moderate
Preferred setup: Heavily planted, dark substrate, driftwood, floating plants

About the Black Neon Tetra

Described by Jacques Géry in 1961 and named in honour of Herbert R. Axelrod, the Black Neon Tetra (Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi) is a staple in the freshwater hobby. Despite the common name, it is not closely related to the true Neon Tetra (Paracheirodon innesi). Instead, it boasts a slightly deeper body and a more robust constitution. Its striking lateral stripes—one silvery-white to pale yellow, and a thicker, dark black stripe just below it—make it a captivating addition to planted aquariums, where its colours truly pop against green foliage.

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Is it right for your tank?

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Where Black Neon Tetra comes from

Native range

Paraguay River basin, Rio Taquari basin

Countries / regions

Brazil

Habitat

Slow-moving tributaries, flooded forests, and small creeks with dense leaf litter and overhanging vegetation.

Most specimens in the aquarium trade are commercially bred in large facilities rather than wild-caught.

Similar species

Neon Tetra
Paracheirodon innesi
Cardinal Tetra
Paracheirodon axelrodi
Glowlight Tetra
Hemigrammus erythrozonus

We’re adding more full species guides as the catalogue grows.

Compatible tank mates

Reviewed guidance based on this species' recorded traits.

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Panda Corydoras
Corydoras panda
Peaceful bottom-dwellers that occupy a different zone, avoiding any competition while thriving in similar water parameters.
Great
Honey Gourami
Trichogaster chuna
A calm, gentle surface dweller that appreciates the same planted, peaceful environment as the tetras.
Great
Rummy-nose Tetra
Hemigrammus rhodostomus
Another peaceful schooling fish of similar size that creates a beautiful contrast and reinforces a sense of security.
Great
Angelfish
Pterophyllum scalare
Adult Angelfish can grow large enough to view small tetras as a snack, although the Black Neon's deeper body makes it a slightly smaller risk than standard Neon Tetras.
Compatible with caution
Oscar
Astronotus ocellatus
Large, predatory cichlids will quickly eat small tetras.
Not recommended

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