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Black neons:
Total size: 1 ˝ - 2inches
Adaptable temperatures: 78-82
Swimming range: Mid levels except when eating.
Scientific Name: Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi
Life span: Usually 2 –3 years in home aquariums, possibly more.
Black neons are NOT neons. They are related to them but look more like black cardinals. They like warmer water like cardinals do and grow larger – just as cardinals do. They have the same markings as cardinals, but their colors are replaced with a black line and a fluorescent white/green/yellow/blue/brown/clear line (depending on mood and how the lighting hits them). The resemble penguin tetra (which are also from the Amazon). They are schooling fish which means they need at least 6 of their own, preferably at least 10. When keeping black neons and cardinals together, the cardinals take away from the black neons, but the black neons are very mesmerizing with their “glowing” lights. Like most tetras they LOVE plants and need them. Another important thing is that all tetras like darker water, it reminds them of good ‘ole home. Driftwood, pete moss, and/or black water dye will create a murky water home. Their colors are brighter in murky water, either due to the little light that gets through the water reflecting off of their scales, or because they are simply happier. Also dim light is appreciated, best with floating plants. They are great beginner fish. They are much hardier than cardinals, rummy nose, and even those horrid little neons (jk about the neons).
Good tank mates:
Altum angelfish, may eat them if large enough
Angelfish, but will chase them.
Possibly discus.
Other tetras
Corydoras
Dwarf cichlids
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