Black Skirt Tetra

The Black Skirt Tetra (Gymnocorymbus ternetzi) is a popular and attractive characin species known for its distinctive black skirt-like marking and elegant, flowing fins. These active, schooling fish display striking silver and black coloration that creates a beautiful contrast in the aquarium. Hardy, peaceful, and easy to care for, Black Skirt Tetras are excellent choices for community aquariums and make a stunning display when kept in larger groups.

Care Sheet – Black Skirt Tetra (Gymnocorymbus ternetzi)

Temperament

• Peaceful, active schooling fish

• Best kept in groups of 6 or more for natural behavior

Adult Size

• 2–2.5 inches

Minimum Tank Size

• 20 gallons for a small school

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 70–79°F

• pH: 6.0–7.5

• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (5–15 dGH)

• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm

• Nitrate: <20–30 ppm

Diet

• Omnivorous

• Feed a varied diet:

  • High-quality flakes or small pellets

  • Frozen or live foods: brine shrimp, daphnia

  • Occasional vegetable matter

• Feed small amounts 1–2 times daily

Behavior & Compatibility

• Excellent for peaceful community tanks

• Compatible with:

  • Other tetras, rasboras, and peaceful barbs

  • Corydoras and other bottom dwellers

  • Peaceful gouramis and dwarf cichlids

• Avoid fin-nipping species

Aquarium Setup

• Planted tanks with open swimming space

• Moderate lighting to showcase colors

• Gentle water flow

• Clean, well-oxygenated water

Care Level

• Easy

• Very hardy and beginner-friendly

Lifespan

• 3–5 years with proper care

Special Notes

• Distinctive black "skirt" marking on posterior

• Very active swimmers that appreciate open space

• Long-finned varieties available but more delicate

• Schooling behavior creates beautiful movement in aquarium