Black Line Tetra - Hyphessobrycon scholzei Fish Profile & Care Guide
Introduction
The Black Line Tetra (Hyphessobrycon scholzei) is a stunning and peaceful species that adds a touch of elegance to any community aquarium. They are known to coexist well with most fish species but may not thrive with much larger or boisterous tankmates. With their hardy nature, the Black Line Tetra is an excellent choice for beginners, and they should be kept in groups of at least six individuals to ensure their sociable schooling behaviour is met.
In contrast to several tetra species, Red Line Tetras exhibit a preference for limpid aquatic environments characterized by elevated pH levels, distinct from the acidic conditions prevalent in blackwater habitats. Their captive habitat should be expansive, affording ample room for their movement. Inclusive of this space should be carefully designated regions of shelter, fostering concealed areas that gradually become less frequent as the fish acclimate to their surroundings.
Certain sources suggest a potential inclination towards fine-leaved aquatic vegetation in their diet. It is advised to exercise discretion when introducing such plants into an aquarium configuration primarily centred around plant cultivation, as this dietary preference might lead to undesired consequences.
One of the most striking features of the Black Line Tetra is its silver body, complemented by a prominent black line that horizontally traverses the middle of the body. A dark splotch is also visible on the tail fin, while the other fins remain transparent, creating a visually stunning appearance.
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Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Regrettably, distinguishing between male and female Black Line Tetras is an arduous task. Nevertheless, sexually mature females are typically more substantial and have a deeper body than males.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Hyphessobrycon scholzei |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1937 |
| Other Names | None |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Characiformes |
| Family | Characidae |
| Genus | Hyphessobrycon |
| Origins | Paraguay Brazil |
| Approx Max Size | 5 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Middle |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | Yes |
| Best kept as | Groups 6+ |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg-Scatterer |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 5 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 7.0-7.5 |
| GH | 5 - 15 |
| ℉ | 72 - 82 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 22 - 27 |
Natural Habitat
The Black Line Tetra originates from the stunning and diverse aquatic ecosystems of the Lower Amazon River Basin, found in Paraguay and Southern Brazil. These beautiful fish prefer small and shallow streams and tributaries that are crystal clear or tinted with a light brown hue, with slow-moving currents and abundant vegetation. The substrate in their natural habitat typically consists of soft sandy bottoms, providing an ideal environment for these peaceful and active shoaling fish.
Breeding
To successfully breed Black Line Tetras, it is recommended to set up a separate breeding tank with mature water, low lighting and plenty of plants or spawning mops. Conditioning the breeding pairs with live or frozen food, such as bloodworms or mosquito larvae, can also help to encourage reproduction.
When the female is ready to spawn, she will become more active, and the males will start bumping into her. The female will then scatter her eggs among the plants while a male fertilizes them.
Females can lay up to 800 eggs during a single spawning. Once the eggs are fertilized, it is best to remove the adults from the breeding tank to prevent them from consuming the eggs. The tank should be kept dark as tetra eggs and fry are particularly sensitive to light. The eggs will hatch in about a day or two, and the fry will become free-swimming after three to four days.
Initially, they will feed on their yolk sac, and then you can provide them with infusoria or rotifers. It is important to gradually increase the lighting after the first week to maintain water conditions and provide suitable food to ensure the survival and growth of the fry.
Diet & Feeding
In the domestic setting, it is recommended to provide the Black Line Tetras with a well-balanced diet, consisting of high-quality dried food like flakes and granules. However, their dietary requirements would be better met by supplementing their diet with live and frozen foods, such as bloodworm, daphnia, mosquito larvae, and Moina.
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Published: 23 Nov 2020
Last Updated: 30 Aug 2023