Characidaefreshwater fishbeginner

Red Phantom Tetra

Hyphessobrycon sweglesi

Also known as: Red Phantom Tetra

Origin: Colombia, Venezuela (Orinoco basin)

R

Water Parameters

Temperature2227 °C
15 °C35 °C
pH5.57
49
GH (Hardness)110 °dGH
0 °dGH30 °dGH
KH (Alkalinity)05 °dKH
0 °dKH20 °dKH

Quick Stats

Max Size
4 cm
Min Tank
60 L
Lifespan
3-5
Swimming Level
middle
Schooling
Yes (6–12+)
Diet
omnivore
Temperament
peaceful schooling fish; minor male sparring

About

Hyphessobrycon sweglesi, the Red Phantom Tetra, is found in the Orinoco and Meta river basins of Colombia and Venezuela. Males develop an impressively tall, pointed dorsal fin that adds greatly to its visual appeal. Its rich red body colour intensifies in soft, slightly acidic water. A peaceful species well suited to South American biotope and planted community aquariums.

Care Guide

Water: 22–27°C, pH 5.5–7.0, soft and slightly acidic water preferred. Tank: 60 L minimum; heavily planted with open swimming areas and soft, dark substrate. Feeding: Micro-pellets, quality flake, frozen brine shrimp, daphnia and bloodworm. Behaviour: Peaceful schooling species; males may spar gently; keep in groups of 8+. Compatibility: Ideal with other soft-water tetras, pencilfish, apistogramma, and corydoras.

Buy Red Phantom Tetra from FinsHQ shops

Shops currently listing this species with stock available

No shops are currently listing Red Phantom Tetra. List your shop on FinsHQ.
Built for aquarium retailers

Sell Red Phantom Tetra in your shop?

Join aquarium shops already using FinsHQ. Get a beautiful webshop, mobile app, and inventory management — built for aquatic retailers.

Start your free store