Blackline Tail Tetra (Moenkhausia costae)

Details

Blackline Tail Tetra (Moenkhausia costae) – Sleek, Active, and Eye-Catching

Description:

The Blackline Tail Tetra is a sleek, medium-sized schooling fish known for its silver body and distinctive black horizontal stripe running through its eye and tail. This peaceful and hardy species is an excellent choice for larger community aquariums where their dynamic movement and shimmering scales can be fully appreciated. Their slightly larger size compared to smaller tetras makes them a striking midwater presence.

Care Level: Easy

Temperament: Peaceful
Size: Up to 2.5 inches (6.5 cm)
Lifespan: 3–5 years
Diet: Omnivorous – accepts flakes, micro pellets, frozen and live foods like brine shrimp and daphnia
Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)

• pH: 6.0–7.5

• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (3–12 dGH)

Behavior & Compatibility:

Blackline Tail Tetras are peaceful and social fish that thrive in schools of 6 or more. Their constant movement and tight schooling add liveliness to any tank. Best kept with other peaceful community fish such as rasboras, corydoras, and dwarf gouramis. Avoid housing with aggressive or fin-nipping species.

Tank Setup:

They do well in planted aquariums with driftwood, open swimming areas, and soft lighting. A darker substrate enhances their coloration, while a gentle current mimics their natural river habitats.