The Diamond Black Neon Tetra (Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi) is a captivating freshwater fish prized for its striking iridescent scales that reflect like diamonds under aquarium lighting. At about 3cm, this tetra displays a sleek black body accented with a shimmering silver-blue stripe, giving it a jewel-like appearance that stands out in any community aquarium. Known for its peaceful temperament and active schooling nature, the Diamond Black Neon Tetra thrives in planted tanks with soft, slightly acidic water. It’s an excellent choice for aquarists who want a unique, eye-catching species that is both hardy and social.

🐠 Key Features:

• Scientific Name: Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi

• Common Names: Diamond Black Neon Tetra, Black Neon Tetra

• Size: ~3cm (adults up to 4cm)

• Lifespan: 3–5 years

• Temperament: Peaceful, schooling

• Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate

• Origin: South America (Brazil, Paraguay)

• Best kept in groups of 6 or more

🌊 Water Conditions

Diamond Black Neon Tetras prefer clean, soft water that mimics their natural blackwater habitats:

• Temperature: 23–28°C (73–82°F)

• pH: 5.5–7.0

• Hardness: 1–8 dGH

• Tank Size: Minimum 15 gallons

• Water Type: Freshwater

• Filtration: Moderate flow with good oxygenation

• Lighting: Moderate; lighting enhances their shimmering scales

A planted aquarium with dark substrate and plenty of hiding spots will help these tetras feel secure and display their best colors.

🐟 Tank Mates

The Diamond Black Neon Tetra is peaceful and compatible with many small, non-aggressive fish.

Compatible tank mates include:

• Other small tetras (e.g., Neon, Ember)

• Rasboras

• Corydoras catfish

• Otocinclus

• Peaceful dwarf gouramis

• Shrimp and snails (if size appropriate)

Avoid:

• Aggressive or large fish

• Fin-nippers

• Overly boisterous species that may stress them

Keeping them in groups of 6 or more encourages schooling and natural behavior.

🍽️ Feeding Habits

Diamond Black Neon Tetras are omnivorous and thrive on a varied diet:

• High-quality flake or micro pellet foods

• Live or frozen treats like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms

• Freeze-dried options

• Occasional vegetable flakes (e.g., spirulina)

Feed once or twice daily, offering only what they can consume in 2 minutes or less.

🧼 Care and Maintenance

• Weekly water changes of 25–30% to maintain optimal water quality

• Stable water parameters are essential to prevent stress

• Provide gentle filtration to avoid fin damage

• Use a secure lid as these fish may jump when startled

• Regularly monitor for common diseases such as ich or fin rot

🌿 Why Choose the Diamond Black Neon Tetra?

The Diamond Black Neon Tetra combines elegance, peaceful temperament, and manageable care requirements, making it a standout in any planted or community aquarium. Its shimmering, jewel-like scales add a sparkling dynamic that enchants hobbyists and creates a beautiful, lively tank environment.

Add the sparkling beauty of the Diamond Black Neon Tetra to your aquarium—order yours today!