The Black Widow Tetra, or Gymnocorymbus ternetzi, is a fish species that is commonly found in the aquarium trade. However, despite being popular due to their ease of care and hardiness, they are not without their faults. One of the most notable characteristics of these fish is that they are not very well-behaved. They are notorious for nipping at the fins of other fish, which can cause damage and lead to infection. They can also become quite aggressive during feeding times, pushing aside other fish to get their share of the food. These behaviours can make them difficult to keep with other fish, particularly those with delicate or long fins.
The Black Widow Tetra is pretty when young but it doesn’t last.
Additionally, the Black Widow Tetra is not the most aesthetically pleasing fish once they reach their full size. While juveniles may have attractive black and white colouring, adult specimens can become duller in colour and lose their distinctive markings. They are also not a particularly large fish, with adults typically reaching a maximum size of around 5-6 centimetres in length.
Despite their negative traits, the Black Widow Tetra can still be an interesting addition to an aquarium. They are hardy and adaptable, making them suitable for beginners, and can tolerate a wide range of water conditions. They are also not particularly demanding when it comes to feeding, accepting a variety of flake and pellet foods. However, they do appreciate the addition of live or frozen foods to their diet.
While they may not be the most popular fish in the aquarium trade, the Black Widow Tetra still has its fans. Their active and playful nature can make them an entertaining fish to watch, particularly when kept in a large group. They are also relatively inexpensive, making them a budget-friendly option for those looking to add some variety to their aquarium.
In conclusion, while the Black Widow Tetra may not be the most well-behaved or attractive fish in the aquarium trade, they still have their positive qualities. They are hardy, adaptable, and entertaining to watch, making them a suitable choice for beginner aquarists. However, it is important to keep in mind their potential for aggressive behaviour and fin-nipping tendencies when selecting tankmates.
Denise parr (verified owner) –
Ordered 4 Black widows, came well packaged, not suffered any losses, came about a month ago, love watching them swimming about, even have a bossy one, lol . Thank you,
Denise parr (verified owner) –
Order some more of these lovely fish as I up graded to a 200l tank. Came well packaged, thank you Abyss