Family: Characidae
Red Phantom Tetra — a Characidae from South America. Reaches 2.4–3.5 cm; keep at 20–23 °C.
Hyphessobrycon sweglesi is a Characidae from South America. In the wild it prefers blackwater streams and flooded forest; in the aquarium it stays mostly peaceful. Plan on 2.4–3.5 cm of adult fish at 20–23 °C. Related profiles: Hyphessobrycon amandae, Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi, Hyphessobrycon eques.
A moderate-level species: mostly peaceful; larger species predatory; stable water matters more than fancy equipment.
Hold 20–23 °C and keep it stable — 20–23 °C recorded range. Heater for stable tropical warmth.
Expect 2.4–3.5 cm as an adult, living bottom-dwelling. A 25 L tank or larger gives it room.
Omnivore with carnivorous tilt. Vary the menu — quality flakes or pellets plus frozen or live foods.
Mostly peaceful; larger species predatory; strong shoalers; keep in groups of 8 or more. Good company: Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs. Keep away from Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.
Native to South America, where it lives in blackwater streams and flooded forest. Still to gentle current; Moderate.
Not a noted jumper — a standard cover still keeps dust and spray in.
In the aquarium: egg-scatterer among fine plants. Subtle; females fuller-bodied.