Black Widow Tetra - Brooklands

Black Widow Tetras, also commonly called Black Skirt Tetras, are hardy, active freshwater fish that are popular in peaceful community aquariums. They are known for their deep-bodied shape, flowing black fins, and lively schooling behaviour. They are a great option for beginner to intermediate fish keepers looking for a classic tropical community species.

Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful, active, schooling
Maximum Size: Usually around 6 cm, though some sources list them slightly larger in ideal conditions.

Minimum Tank Size:
A tank of around 70–75 litres or more is a sensible minimum for a small group, with a longer tank preferred so they have room to swim together properly.

How Many Should Be Kept Together?
Black Widow Tetras should be kept in a group of at least 6 or more. Keeping them in proper numbers helps them feel secure and usually reduces fin-nipping behaviour within the aquarium.

Ideal Water Temperature:
A good working range is around 22–26°C, although some care guides allow a slightly broader range. Stable temperature is important, as sudden swings can stress tropical fish.

Water Conditions:
They do best in clean, well-filtered water with a slightly acidic to neutral pH, though they are considered adaptable compared with some more delicate tetra species. A well-maintained aquarium with plants and open swimming space suits them best.

Diet:
Black Widow Tetras are omnivores and generally accept a wide range of aquarium foods. A good quality flake or small pellet can be used as a staple, with frozen or live foods offered for variety and condition.

Compatibility:
They are usually good community fish, but they can be nippy with long-finned, slow-moving tank mates if kept in too small a group or in the wrong setup. They are best paired with other peaceful but reasonably active species.

Things to Be Cautious Of:
Although they are peaceful overall, Black Widow Tetras are not ideal with delicate fancy-finned fish such as some guppies or bettas because fin-nipping can occur. They also do best in a properly cycled aquarium with regular maintenance and enough swimming space.

Helpful Notes:
These fish look best in a planted aquarium with some shaded areas and open room for schooling. In a good-sized group, they are more confident, more settled, and more visually striking.