Black Skirt Tetra

• ExerciseModerate

  An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.

• GroomingEasy tank upkeep

  No grooming here — steady water quality and routine tank care do it.

• Living spaceNano-tank friendly

  Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.

• Owner experienceSome experience helps

  A little know-how makes life smoother.

• Commitment3–5 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Ich (white spot) · Fin rot · Skin conditions

The black skirt tetra (Gymnocorymbus ternetzi) is a hardy characin from the Paraguay and Guaporé river basins of central South America. It reaches about 5–6 cm, with a tall, diamond-shaped body and flowing dark anal fin, and lives 3–5 years. The bold black colour of young fish fades to silvery grey as they mature. Black skirts are shoaling fish for a tank of 75 litres or more, best kept in groups of six or more to spread out their energy. Keep them at 20–26°C with a pH of 6.0–7.5, providing plants around the edges and open water for swimming. A proper group is important, because lone or under-schooled fish become nippy. They are easygoing omnivores that take flake, pellets and frozen foods readily. Generally peaceful, they have a well-known habit of nipping long, flowing fins, so avoid pairing them with angelfish, bettas or guppies. Hardy and forgiving, their few ailments — ich and fin rot — usually follow chilling or poor water and are prevented by steady, clean conditions.

• How active is a Black Skirt Tetra?

  Moderate. An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.

• How much maintenance does a Black Skirt Tetra need?

  Easy tank upkeep. No grooming here — steady water quality and routine tank care do it.

• What tank size does a Black Skirt Tetra need?

  Nano-tank friendly. Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.

• Is a Black Skirt Tetra a good fit for first-time owners?

  Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.

• How long do Black Skirt Tetra live?

  3–5 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Black Skirt Tetra?

  Keep an eye out for Ich (white spot), Fin rot, Skin conditions. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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