UNDERGROUNDAQUARIUM
Tetras & Characins

Black Neon Tetra

Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi

A hardy schooler with a glowing horizontal stripe — tougher than a true neon.

Water
Freshwater
Temperature
73–81°F
pH
5.5–7.5
Hardness
3–15 dGH
Max size
1.6 in
Min tank
15 gal
Temperament
Peaceful
Social
Schooling (6+)
Swim level
Middle
Diet
Omnivore
Care level
Beginner
Lifespan
3-5 years
Breeding
Egg-scatterer
Suitability
Common
Origin
Paraguay basin, Brazil

Despite the name it isn't closely related to the neon tetra. It is undemanding, adaptable, and a great first schooling fish.