NOTE: This care guide was copied from the care guide I wrote on aqcenter.net (username onidrase). This is why the format is different. It was still written by me.

COMMON NAME Black Widow Tetra, Black Skirt Tetra

SCIENTIFIC NAME Gymnocorymbus ternetzi

FAMILY Characidae

ORIGIN South America

MAXIMUM SIZE 2"-3", 5-7cm

TEMPERATURE RANGE 74-78F, 23-26C

CARE Some of the hardiest fish I've kept, they seem to be able to live through anything, though they can be initially prone to ich. The long fin and white skirt tetra varieties seem somewhat more prone to diseases than the regular variety. These fish do best in groups of 6 or more. Given they're somewhat inactive, a 24" tank would be sufficient in keeping a small group of these, but 30"+ would be best. they prefer soft, somewhat acidic water, but can live in a wide array of perimeters.

FEEDING - Not a picky eater, will accept any food you give them. They'll eat any prepared food as well as worms and small shrimp.

SEXING Females have a slightly more wide body, and males tend to have more of a point on the dorsal fin.

OTHER They are given the reputation of being a bit nippy, though mine only tended to chase at each other, and left other fishes alone. Their fins also tend to lose a bit of the solid black and get more of a matted dark gray as they age. They do well with most fish, being peaceful, wide bodied, and quick (when they need to be) Make a great beginner fish, given their hardiness and ability to fit in with almost any community.