The Yellow Phantom Tetra (Hyphessobrycon sweglesi variant) is a beautiful and peaceful schooling fish known for its soft yellow coloration and subtle iridescent shimmer. At about 2.5cm, this tetra exhibits delicate translucent fins edged in gentle yellow tones, creating an ethereal appearance that fits perfectly into planted or blackwater-style aquariums. A variant of the classic Phantom Tetra, the Yellow Phantom is prized for adding warm hues and gentle movement to peaceful community tanks.

Native to slow-moving streams and tributaries in South America, Yellow Phantom Tetras thrive in soft, acidic water with plenty of plant cover and subdued lighting.

🐠 Key Features:

• Scientific Name: Hyphessobrycon sweglesi (yellow variant)

• Common Name: Yellow Phantom Tetra

• Size: 2.5cm (adult size)

• Lifespan: 3–5 years

• Temperament: Peaceful, schooling

• Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate

• Origin: South America (Colombia and Venezuela)

• Best kept in groups of 6 or more

🌊 Water Conditions

Yellow Phantom Tetras prefer stable water conditions with slightly acidic pH and soft water.

• Temperature: 22–27°C (72–81°F)

• pH: 5.5–7.0

• Hardness: 1–8 dGH

• Tank Size: Minimum 15 gallons

• Water Type: Freshwater

• Filtration: Gentle filtration with moderate flow

• Lighting: Low to moderate; subdued lighting highlights their soft hues

Adding driftwood, leaf litter, and dense planting helps mimic their natural blackwater habitat.

🐟 Tank Mates

Their peaceful nature makes Yellow Phantom Tetras ideal for calm community setups.

Compatible tank mates:

• Other small tetras (Neon, Ember, Glowlight)

• Rasboras

• Corydoras catfish

• Otocinclus

• Peaceful dwarf gouramis

• Small shrimp and snails

Avoid:

• Aggressive or fin-nipping fish

• Large or boisterous species

They feel safest and show best coloration when kept in groups of 6 or more.

🍽️ Feeding Habits

Yellow Phantom Tetras are omnivores that thrive on a varied diet.

Recommended diet:

• High-quality flakes or micro pellets

• Live or frozen foods: bloodworms, daphnia, brine shrimp

• Freeze-dried tubifex or krill

• Occasional vegetable flakes or spirulina-based foods

Feed once or twice daily, in small amounts consumed quickly.

🧼 Care and Maintenance

• Regular water changes (20–25% weekly) to maintain quality

• Stable water parameters are important to reduce stress

• Provide plenty of plants and hiding spots

• Use a secure lid to prevent jumping

• Monitor health and behavior for any signs of disease

🌿 Why Choose the Yellow Phantom Tetra?

The Yellow Phantom Tetra adds a warm, glowing presence to peaceful freshwater tanks. Its soft yellow coloration and gentle schooling behavior make it a perfect choice for planted, blackwater, or beginner-friendly community aquariums.

Bring subtle beauty and calm to your aquarium—add Yellow Phantom Tetras today!