Black Darter Tetra

A small, dark fish from blackwater streams, with a tall, flowing dorsal fin on the male, and also called the Black Morpho Tetra. Males are territorial, and it often needs small live foods, so it is not for beginners.

Check the scientific name when buying, as common names vary between sellers and countries.

Mature females are usually rounder in the belly, and males are usually slimmer and often brighter.

A long tank with open swimming water, plants around the edges and steady filtration suits this fish. A darker substrate and some floating plants usually bring out its colour.

Active and social, and most settled when kept with its own kind.

Keep a group of at least 6, and more if you can. Larger groups are calmer and show better colour and behaviour.

Not territorial, although males may spar and display.

Suits a community of similar-sized, peaceful fish that like the same water. Avoid large predators, which will treat it as food. It may eat baby shrimp. Choose its tankmates with care.

Needs soft, acidic water.

Shy and often slow to accept dried food. Start with live or frozen daphnia, cyclops and baby brine shrimp, then offer fine granules once it feeds confidently.

Feed small amounts, and remove anything left after a few minutes.

Spawns inside a cave, and one parent guards the eggs and young. Provide a suitable cave for each pair.