Description
Black Skirt Tetra – Gymnocorymbus ternetzi
Introduction:
The Black Skirt Tetra (Gymnocorymbus ternetzi) is a popular aquarium fish known for its distinctive black, translucent fins that give it a striking appearance. Native to the slow-moving rivers and streams of South America, particularly in Brazil, this peaceful and hardy species makes an excellent addition to any community aquarium. Typically reaching 2.5 inches (6.5 cm) in length, the Black Skirt Tetra is ideal for both beginner and experienced hobbyists due to its easy care requirements and social nature.
1. Natural Habitat and Behavior
- Natural Habitat: Native to the waterways of South America, the Black Skirt Tetra is found in shallow rivers and streams, where it inhabits areas with submerged vegetation and dark, tannin-rich waters.
- Behavior: Known for their peaceful nature, Black Skirt Tetras are social fish that do best in schools. They exhibit calm behavior but can be slightly shy when first introduced to a new tank. With time, they become more confident, often swimming in groups throughout the aquarium. They are active swimmers and enjoy the middle layers of the tank.
2. Aquarium Setup
- Tank Size: A 20-gallon tank is sufficient for a school of 6-8 Black Skirt Tetras. If keeping larger groups, consider a 30-gallon or bigger tank for ample swimming space.
- Substrate: A fine gravel or sandy substrate works well, as they do not dig or uproot plants.
- Decor: Black Skirt Tetras enjoy well-planted tanks with plenty of hiding spots. Floating plants, driftwood, and smooth rocks create a suitable environment for them. While they don’t require a heavily decorated tank, a few hiding spaces help them feel secure.
- Water Conditions: Ideal water conditions include a slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 6.0 to 7.5, a temperature range of 72°F to 80°F (22°C to 27°C), and soft to moderately hard water.
- Lighting: Moderate lighting is best for these tetras. They adapt well to different light levels but thrive in dimmer tanks with plenty of hiding spots.
3. Diet and Feeding
- Diet: Black Skirt Tetras are omnivorous and accept a wide range of foods, including high-quality flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. Offering a balanced diet with occasional plant matter is ideal for their health.
- Feeding Schedule: Feed your Black Skirt Tetras 1-2 times a day, providing enough food for them to consume in 2-3 minutes. Be sure not to overfeed, as this can pollute the water.
4. Compatibility with Other Fish
- Compatible Species: The Black Skirt Tetra is a peaceful species and can be kept with a wide variety of other community fish. Suitable tankmates include other tetras, rasboras, Corydoras catfish, peaceful cichlids, and small loaches.
- Incompatible Species: While they are peaceful, Black Skirt Tetras may nip the fins of slow-moving or long-finned species. Avoid keeping them with fish such as bettas or angelfish, as they may become aggressive toward them.
5. Common Challenges and Tips
- Fin Nipping: Black Skirt Tetras are known to engage in fin-nipping, especially when kept in smaller groups. To reduce this behavior, ensure they are housed in a school of at least 6 individuals. This encourages natural schooling behavior and reduces stress.
- Water Quality: As with many tetras, Black Skirt Tetras are sensitive to poor water conditions. Regular water changes of 20-30% per week and proper filtration are essential to their health.
- Temperature Sensitivity: These tetras prefer stable water temperatures. Sudden temperature fluctuations can stress them, so be sure to use an aquarium heater to maintain a consistent temperature.
Conclusion:
The Black Skirt Tetra (Gymnocorymbus ternetzi) is a peaceful and attractive species that adds activity and color to a community tank. With their easygoing nature and relatively simple care requirements, they are an excellent choice for both beginner and seasoned aquarium keepers. By providing a suitable tank setup with plenty of swimming space and water quality maintenance, Black Skirt Tetras will thrive and bring life to your aquarium.
