Black Morpho Tetra

Appearance

The Black Morpho Tetra is a small-sized fish, typically reaching about 2.5-3 centimeters (1-1.2 inches) in length. Its charm lies in its striking contrast, with a deep black body that shimmers brilliantly under proper lighting. A distinctive silvery stripe runs along its sides, further enhancing its elegance. These tetras exhibit sexual dimorphism, with males displaying longer fins, particularly the dorsal fin.

Region

Native to the clearwater streams of South America, particularly in the Rio Orinoco basin in Venezuela, Black Morpho Tetras are accustomed to calm and slow-moving waters. Their habitat is often rich in vegetation, submerged roots, and leaf litter, which provides them with ideal shelter.

Behavior

Known for their peaceful nature, Black Morpho Tetras are social and prefer the company of their own kind. They are an excellent choice for community tanks with other small, peaceful species. These tetras are active swimmers and enjoy darting among plants and decor in the aquarium.

Diet

In their natural habitat, Black Morpho Tetras are omnivorous, feasting on a diet of small aquatic invertebrates and zooplankton. In a home aquarium, they readily accept high-quality dry foods such as micro-pellets and flakes. To keep them at their healthiest and most vibrant, supplement their diet with occasional live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms.

Keeping Chocolate Gouramis at home

Creating an ideal environment for Black Morpho Tetras requires careful attention to tank setup, water parameters, and compatible tank mates. Here are essential guidelines for their well-being:

Tank size: A small to medium-sized aquarium with a minimum capacity of 60 liters (15 gallons) can comfortably accommodate a small group of Black Morpho Tetras. A larger tank allows for more individuals and a greater sense of security.
Water parameters: Maintain a stable water temperature between 22-26°C (72-79°F) and ensure a pH level around 6.0-7.0. Regular water changes of 10-20% every week help maintain water quality.
Aquarium setup: Mimic their natural habitat by incorporating live plants, driftwood, and leaf litter. Use dim lighting to create a tranquil ambiance. A dark substrate enhances the contrast and beauty of these tetras.
Tank mates: Black Morpho Tetras are peaceful and should be housed with other non-aggressive, small fish species. Ideal tank mates include other tetras, small Rasboras, and dwarf shrimp species.

The Black Morpho Tetra, with its captivating elegance and tranquil nature, offers a touch of sophistication to any aquarium. By understanding their size, appearance, behavior, and dietary preferences, you can create a thriving and visually appealing aquatic haven within your own home. Embrace the opportunity to care for Poecilocharax weitzmani, and you’ll be rewarded with moments of tranquility and the joy of witnessing their charming interactions in your own aquatic sanctuary.