Black neon tetra
Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi
easy careOverview
The black neon tetra (Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi) is one of the most understated community fish — a slim silver body crossed by a bold black band topped with a thin gold-green line that catches the light. It isn’t a true neon at all, but it’s hardier and more adaptable than one, which makes it an excellent beginner shoaling fish. In numbers, against green planting, black neons have a quiet elegance that flashier tetras can’t match.
Tank & water
Undemanding, but still a shoaling fish that needs space and a group:
- A cycled tank of at least 60 litres — cycle the aquarium first and stock once it’s stable. See how many fish in an aquarium.
- Temperature 23–27 °C with a reliable heater.
- Soft to moderately hard water (pH 5.5–7.5) — one of their strengths is tolerance of a wide range. Gentle filtration suits them.
- A planted layout — live plants and open swimming space in the middle of the tank.
Feeding
Black neons are easy-going omnivores. A good tropical flake or micro-pellet is the staple, rounded out with frozen or live daphnia, brine shrimp and bloodworm. Feed small amounts once or twice a day. Browse the fish food hub and best fish food picks.
Tankmates
Peaceful and adaptable, black neons fit almost any calm community. Good companions include other tetras — glowlight, lemon and neon tetras — corydoras, small rasboras, peaceful gouramis and dwarf shrimp. Avoid large, aggressive or persistently nippy fish. Their hardiness makes them one of the easiest tetras to slot into a mixed tank.
For a stable, planted community see our best aquarium for beginners guide — black neons are a forgiving, good-looking first shoal.
Black neon tetra — frequently asked questions
Is the black neon tetra the same as a neon tetra?
No — despite the name they're different species. The black neon (Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi) has a green-gold upper line over a black band, not the red-and-blue of a true neon. It's also hardier and more forgiving of water conditions.
Are black neon tetras easy to keep?
Very. They tolerate a wider range of pH and temperature than true neons, adapt well to community tanks and are undemanding once the aquarium is cycled. A cycled, planted tank and a shoal of six or more is all they really ask for.
How many black neon tetras should I keep?
Six is the minimum; eight to twelve looks and behaves far better. They're shoaling fish, and a proper group keeps them confident, active and well-coloured rather than shy and washed-out.
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