Red Phantom Tetra

The Red Phantom Tetra (Hyphessobrycon sweglesi) is a colorful and peaceful schooling fish prized for its deep red to ruby body coloration and distinctive dark shoulder spot. Males often develop brighter coloration and elongated dorsal fins, making them especially attractive in a well-planted aquarium.

Native to the Orinoco River basin in Colombia and Venezuela, this species naturally inhabits slow-moving blackwater streams with soft, slightly acidic water and dense vegetation. In the aquarium, Red Phantom Tetras thrive in planted setups with subdued lighting, driftwood, and open swimming areas.

When kept in a group, they display beautiful schooling behavior and subtle interactions between males as they gently display their fins to one another.

Why Aquarists Love Red Phantom Tetras

• Rich red to ruby coloration
• Distinct black shoulder spot
• Peaceful schooling fish perfect for community tanks
• Ideal for planted and blackwater aquariums

Behavior & Compatibility

Red Phantom Tetras are peaceful schooling fish and should be kept in groups of 6 or more for natural behavior and best coloration.

Suitable tank mates include:

• Other peaceful tetras
• Rasboras
• Corydoras catfish
• Dwarf cichlids
• Small gouramis

Avoid keeping them with aggressive or fin-nipping species.

Ideal Aquarium Setup

Red Phantom Tetras do best in aquariums that mimic their natural environment.

Recommended aquarium features include:

• Live plants and driftwood
• Subdued lighting
• Gentle water flow
• Open swimming space in the middle of the tank

Diet and Feeding

Red Phantom Tetras are omnivores and accept a variety of foods.

Recommended foods include:

• High-quality flakes or micro pellets
• Frozen or live foods such as bloodworms or brine shrimp
• Daphnia or other small invertebrates

A varied diet helps enhance coloration and maintain good health.

Recommended Tank Parameters

Temperature: 72 – 82°F (22 – 28°C)
pH: 5.5 – 7.5
KH: 2 – 10 dKH
Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons

Size Information

Average Adult Size:
1.5 – 2 inches (4 – 5 cm)

Typical Sale Size:
0.75 – 1 inch (2 – 2.5 cm)

Origin

The Red Phantom Tetra originates from Colombia and Venezuela, primarily within tributaries of the Orinoco River basin.

Add vibrant color and peaceful schooling behavior to your aquarium with the Red Phantom Tetra, a beautiful species perfect for planted freshwater community aquariums. 🐟