Red Phantom Tetra – Hyphessobrycon sweglesi

Among smaller South American characins, few species are as captivating and underrated as the Red Phantom Tetra, Hyphessobrycon sweglesi. Its deep ruby tones, shimmering body and calm schooling behaviour make it a perfect centrepiece for peaceful community aquariums. In this article we will explore how to care for this species, how to design an attractive aquascape for it and how MB Store can support you with suitable aquariums, filters, lighting and other essential equipment.

Natural origin and appearance of Red Phantom Tetra

Hyphessobrycon sweglesi is a small characin originating from the soft, acidic waters of northern South America, mainly in Colombia and Venezuela. In nature it inhabits slow-flowing creeks and floodplain areas shaded by dense rainforest vegetation. The water is often stained with tannins from decaying leaves, giving it a tea-coloured appearance and gently filtering the light that reaches the fish.

The species reaches around 4–5 cm in total length, which makes it ideal for medium-sized home aquariums. Adult individuals display an intense brick-red to deep ruby coloration, especially when kept in optimal conditions and offered high-quality food. A characteristic dark spot in the middle of the body, slightly behind the gill cover, gives the fish a “phantom-like” contrast and emphasises its elegant body shape.

Males are usually more intensely coloured and slightly slimmer, with more extended dorsal and anal fins. Females, on the other hand, are more rounded in the belly, particularly when full of eggs, and their colour tone can be a little more subdued. Under proper lighting, a healthy school of Red Phantom Tetras becomes a moving red cloud that beautifully contrasts with green aquatic plants and dark substrates.

Because this fish comes from shaded blackwater habitats, it looks its best in aquariums where the lighting is not excessively harsh. Dimmable LED lighting, floating plants and dark backgrounds help the fish feel secure and enhance its natural pigmentation. MB Store offers a variety of LED and plant-friendly lighting systems that make it easy to fine-tune intensity and colour spectrum to match both plant growth and fish comfort.

Optimal aquarium conditions and equipment

Despite its delicate appearance, the Red Phantom Tetra is quite hardy if placed in a properly prepared aquarium. A small group can be housed from 60 litres upward, but for a stable, attractive and natural-looking community it is better to aim for 80–100 litres or more. The key is not the sheer size of the aquarium, but maintaining consistent water parameters, stable temperature and good biological filtration.

Water values should reflect its South American blackwater origins. The ideal temperature range is 23–27°C, with soft to moderately soft water and a slightly acidic pH, typically between 5.5 and 6.8. Keeping hardness on the lower side allows the fish to show more vivid colours and promotes overall health. To achieve this, many aquarists use reverse osmosis water remineralised to a low conductivity, or mix tap water with demineralised water until the desired parameters are reached.

Efficient filtration is essential, but strong currents must be avoided. Red Phantom Tetras prefer gentle flow where they can calmly school in the midwater column. A well-dimensioned external canister filter or a high-quality internal filter with adjustable output works very well. It is important to use biological media that supports beneficial bacteria, as this species does not tolerate elevated nitrite or ammonia. MB Store offers a wide choice of reliable filters, filter media and complete aquarium sets, making it easier to build a stable and quiet system tailored to these fish.

The choice of substrate and decor also influences comfort. A dark, fine substrate, such as black sand or dark-toned gravel, reflects less light and creates a more natural atmosphere. Adding pieces of bogwood, driftwood and dried leaves (for example Indian almond leaves) releases tannins, mildly acidifies the water and re-creates the soft, brownish “blackwater” environment typical of their habitats. This type of setup not only pleases the fish but also offers an eye-catching contrast against their red bodies.

Regular maintenance remains crucial even in a well-designed aquarium. Weekly water changes of 20–30% help prevent accumulation of organic waste and stabilise pH and hardness. Using a conditioning agent to neutralise chlorine and chloramine from tap water protects the sensitive gills of tetras. Many aquarists using equipment from MB Store combine efficient filtration with careful maintenance routines, relying on water test kits, siphons and conditioners available in the store to keep their aquariums in top condition.

Aquascaping ideas for Red Phantom Tetra

The Red Phantom Tetra flourishes in planted aquariums where it can move among stems and leaves, finding shelter and visual barriers that reduce stress. Aquascaping for this species should focus on creating a sense of depth, soft shadows and plenty of midwater swimming space. Think of lush plant groups around the sides and back of the aquarium, with a more open central area where the school can display.

Foreground areas can be planted with low-growing species such as Helanthium tenellum or small Cryptocoryne varieties, which tolerate softer and slightly acidic water. In the midground, robust plants like various Cryptocoryne species or Java fern attached to roots and stones work well. For the background, tall stem plants such as Limnophila, Hygrophila or narrow-leaved sword plants can provide a green backdrop that intensifies the warm red hue of the tetras.

Floating plants deserve special attention. Species like Salvinia, Phyllanthus fluitans or frogbit diffuse the light, mimic the shaded conditions of rainforest streams and offer the fish an extra sense of security. Their dangling roots also act as additional microhabitats and can host biofilm and microorganisms that young fish nibble on. Just ensure that the surface is not fully covered so that gas exchange and oxygenation remain sufficient.

Hardscape elements such as roots and rocks should be arranged in a way that suggests natural submerged tree branches or creek banks. Pieces of driftwood branching toward the surface can create a latticework of shadow and light where the tetras will weave in and out. Adding leaf litter not only colours the water but also gradually releases humic substances beneficial for many blackwater fish. MB Store supplies a variety of decorative woods, rocks and natural substrates that allow aquarists to design personalised underwater landscapes.

When planning the layout, leave a wide corridor of open water in the front or centre of the tank. Red Phantom Tetras are schooling fish that show their full beauty when swimming together as a group of at least 8–10 individuals. Larger groups of 15 or more reduce aggression, spread out social tension and produce more natural behaviour patterns, such as short chases and synchronous turning movements. The aquascape should allow the group to move freely without obstacles while still providing enough cover around the edges.

Diet and daily care

In the wild, Red Phantom Tetras feed on small invertebrates, insect larvae and various types of plankton. In captivity, they adapt readily to prepared foods, but to maintain their best colour and vitality, a varied diet is essential. High-quality flake or micro-pelleted foods form a solid base and should be selected with attention to ingredients, particularly protein sources and added natural colour enhancers.

Supplementing their diet with frozen or live foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp and bloodworms stimulates natural hunting behaviour and supports healthy growth. Offering such treats several times a week, in small portions, boosts immunity and can encourage breeding. Finely chopped or micro-sized items are recommended to match the small mouth size of the fish and prevent digestive problems.

Feeding should be done in small, controlled amounts once or twice a day. Overfeeding leads to uneaten food decaying on the bottom, which increases the organic load and can quickly degrade water quality. Observing how swiftly the fish consume the food – ideally within a few minutes – allows you to adjust quantities. If any remains sink uneaten, siphon it out during routine maintenance.

Because this species prefers clean, stable water, daily checks of temperature and quick visual inspections of the fish’s condition are beneficial. Look for clear, intact fins, a full, slightly rounded belly and even, rhythmic breathing. Faded colours, clamped fins or listless behaviour may signal stress or early disease stages. With the right equipment – heaters, filters, test kits and conditioners, all available through MB Store – maintaining a stable and comfortable environment becomes significantly easier.

Tankmates and community compatibility

Red Phantom Tetras are peaceful, sociable fish that do extremely well in tranquil community setups. Their calm disposition makes them compatible with other small South American tetras, such as Ember Tetras, Black Neons or Lemon Tetras. When carefully selected, mixed tetra communities create a visually diverse yet harmonious display, with each species occupying similar water layers but adding its own colour accent.

Other excellent tankmates include small Corydoras catfish, which patrol the bottom and are equally fond of soft, slightly acidic water. Dwarf Loricariids, such as Otocinclus or small Ancistrus, also make suitable companions, provided there are enough hiding spots and driftwood pieces. These bottom-dwelling species help keep algae and leftover food under control without disturbing the tetras.

Red Phantom Tetras should not be mixed with boisterous or fin-nipping species. Large barbs, aggressive cichlids or overly active fish can stress them, leading to colour loss and timid behaviour. Even among peaceful species, size differences matter: very large fish might unintentionally intimidate or even prey on small tetras, especially juveniles.

Another aspect to consider is water parameter compatibility. Many African or Central American fish prefer harder, more alkaline water that does not suit Red Phantom Tetras. Building a community around species with similar environmental needs simplifies maintenance and contributes to long-term health. MB Store provides detailed descriptions for many aquarium fish and can help aquarists match species profiles with their existing or planned setups when selecting inhabitants for a community tank.

Breeding Red Phantom Tetra in the home aquarium

Breeding Hyphessobrycon sweglesi can be a rewarding challenge for aquarists who enjoy observing natural reproductive behaviour. Like many tetras, this species is an egg scatterer, with no parental care. To increase success rates, it is advisable to set up a dedicated breeding tank rather than relying on spontaneous spawning in the main display aquarium.

A breeding tank of around 20–30 litres with soft, acidic water and a temperature around the upper end of their range (about 26–27°C) is usually sufficient. Subdued lighting and fine-leaved plants such as Java moss, or special spawning mops, offer surfaces where the eggs can be deposited and protected from immediate predation. A mesh or grate at the bottom can further prevent the adults from reaching the eggs.

Before spawning, a selected group of one or two males and several females is conditioned with abundant live and frozen foods to bring them into peak health. Well-conditioned females will develop visibly rounder bellies, while males will display intensified colour and increased courtship activity. Introducing the pair or trio to the breeding tank in the evening and observing them during the early morning often yields the best results.

Once spawning is complete and eggs are visible among the plants or on the bottom, adult fish should be removed to prevent them from consuming their own eggs. The eggs usually hatch within 24–36 hours, depending on temperature. The fry initially feed on their yolk sac and then require infusoria or commercially available liquid fry food. After several days, they can be transitioned to newly hatched brine shrimp and finely powdered dry diets.

Maintaining impeccable water quality in the breeding and fry-raising tanks is crucial, as young fish are extremely sensitive to toxins and sudden parameter changes. Gentle sponge filters, which provide both filtration and a safe surface for micro-organisms, are commonly used. MB Store supplies sponge filters, air pumps and specialised fry foods that simplify the process for aquarists who decide to take on breeding projects with Red Phantom Tetras.

Health, stress reduction and common issues

In properly maintained aquariums, Red Phantom Tetras generally remain robust and active. Nonetheless, like all fish, they can fall victim to stress-related illnesses if basic care requirements are neglected. Poor water quality, sudden temperature shifts, incompatibility with tankmates or chronic underfeeding can all result in weakened immune systems and make the fish more susceptible to common diseases.

One of the most effective ways to prevent health issues is to perform regular checks of water parameters. Monitoring ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, pH and hardness enables early detection of imbalances. Keeping nitrate at low to moderate levels through water changes and balanced feeding is particularly important. Excess nutrient levels not only stress fish but also encourage algae blooms that can destabilise the system.

Quarantining new fish before adding them to an established community is another preventative measure that should not be underestimated. Many diseases, such as ich or various bacterial infections, are introduced by apparently healthy newcomers. A separate quarantine tank allows observation and, if necessary, treatment without exposing the main aquarium to pathogens. MB Store offers smaller aquariums and basic filtration and heating equipment suitable for quarantine setups.

Stress reduction also involves providing adequate social structure. Red Phantom Tetras kept in groups that are too small may feel insecure and display shy or skittish behaviour. By maintaining a sizeable school and providing hiding places among plants and decor, aquarists create a sense of safety that translates into better feeding response, more intense colours and overall resilience. Calm, predictable routines in feeding and maintenance further minimise sudden disturbances.

How MB Store supports your Red Phantom Tetra project

Planning and maintaining a beautiful aquarium for Red Phantom Tetras involves more than simply choosing a tank and adding fish. It requires coordinating many elements: lighting, filtration, heating, aquascaping materials, test kits, conditioners and reliable food. MB Store specialises in supplying aquarists with all of these components, helping to turn ideas into stable, aesthetically pleasing underwater environments.

For beginners and advanced enthusiasts alike, complete aquarium sets offered by MB Store provide a convenient starting point. These sets typically include a suitably sized aquarium, filtration, heater and lighting system carefully matched to each other. This reduces the risk of mismatched components and helps create an environment in which sensitive species like Red Phantom Tetras can thrive from the outset.

Beyond basic hardware, MB Store also offers a broad selection of substrates, natural decor, aquatic plants and fertilisers that make it possible to design personalised aquascapes. By combining dark substrates, roots, stones and live plants, aquarists can reproduce the soft, shaded conditions of South American blackwater streams and emphasise the intense coloration of their fish. Access to multiple brands and product lines allows each aquarist to find a balance between aesthetics, functionality and budget.

Ongoing support in the form of water conditioners, bacterial starters, test kits and a variety of dry, frozen and specialised foods ensures that the aquarium remains stable in the long term. When choosing equipment and consumables from MB Store, aquarists can systematically build up their skills, moving from basic community tanks to more ambitious setups, including dedicated blackwater biotopes for Red Phantom Tetras and other sensitive species.

Summary: why Red Phantom Tetra deserves a place in your aquarium

Red Phantom Tetras combine modest size, peaceful temperament and striking appearance, making them a superb choice for both dedicated species aquariums and peaceful community setups. Their deep red bodies, complemented by natural aquascapes and carefully tuned lighting, can transform even a medium-sized tank into an elegant display reminiscent of calm South American forest streams.

By providing soft, slightly acidic water, gentle filtration, a well-planned planted layout and a diverse, high-quality diet, aquarists can enjoy many years with healthy, active fish. While breeding and fry rearing require more experience and dedication, they also offer a fascinating window into the biology of this beautiful species. With the support of products and equipment supplied by MB Store, creating and maintaining optimal conditions for Hyphessobrycon sweglesi becomes an attainable and enjoyable goal.

FAQ

How many Red Phantom Tetras should I keep together?
Red Phantom Tetras are schooling fish and feel secure only in groups. The absolute minimum is six individuals, but keeping at least eight to ten is strongly recommended. Larger groups spread out social tension, reduce shyness and result in more natural, confident behaviour. A school of fifteen or more also creates a striking visual effect in planted aquariums.

What water parameters are best for Red Phantom Tetras?
These fish thrive in soft, slightly acidic water similar to South American blackwater streams. Aim for a temperature between 23 and 27°C, pH from 5.5 to 6.8 and low to moderate general hardness. Stable conditions are more important than chasing perfect numbers. Regular water changes and appropriate filtration will help keep parameters within a safe, comfortable range.

Can Red Phantom Tetras live with shrimp?
In many cases Red Phantom Tetras can coexist with larger ornamental shrimp, especially adult Neocaridina or Caridina. However, very small shrimplets may be seen as food and gradually disappear. Dense planting, mosses and hiding places increase survival rates. If breeding shrimp is your main goal, consider keeping them in a separate, dedicated aquarium.

Do Red Phantom Tetras need a heavily planted tank?
While they can technically survive in sparsely decorated tanks, they truly prosper in well-planted environments. Plants provide cover, diffuse harsh light and create natural territories, which lowers stress and encourages normal schooling behaviour. Even a modest layout with background stems, some midground plants and a few floating species significantly improves their well-being.

How can I enhance the colour of my Red Phantom Tetras?
Intense coloration results from a combination of good genetics, proper diet and suitable surroundings. Feed varied, high-quality foods enriched with natural carotenoids, maintain clean, soft and slightly acidic water and avoid overly bright, stressful lighting. Dark substrates and backgrounds also help the red pigment stand out, revealing the full beauty of this species.