Black Neon Tetra (Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi) is a beginner-level freshwater fish that needs at least 15 gallons and 72-79°F. A small, hardy tetra with a white-edged black body stripe. It is a different species from the common neon tetra, with its own look and slightly different water preferences, and it does well in a planted community tank.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi |
|---|---|
| Family | Characidae |
| Origin | Paraguay River basin, South America |
| Adult size | 1.75 in |
| Minimum tank | 15 gallons |
| Temperature | 72-79°F |
| pH | 5.5-7.5 |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Social behavior | Schooling, keep 6+ |
| Swim level | Mid |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Diet | Omnivore: micro pellets, flakes, frozen foods |
| Typical lifespan | 3-4 years |
Quick tips
- Keep a group of six or more.
- Not a neon tetra; do not rely on neon care notes for exact numbers.
- Choose calm, small tankmates.
San Diego water
Captive-bred stock usually adapts to San Diego tap water with slow acclimation. For best color and health, many keepers blend tap with RO/DI water. Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
Before you buy
Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi