How to Identify Black Skirt Tetra

To identify Black Skirt Tetra (Gymnocorymbus ternetzi), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Juveniles and sub-adults exhibit a silvery-gray body with three prominent vertical black stripes, the first passing through the eye, the second behind the operculum, and the third at the base of the dorsal fin. The posterior half of the body, including the anal and dorsal fins, is typically black. As they mature, the black body coloration often fades to a duller gray, though the fins may retain some dark pigmentation. Albino, long-finned, and artificially colored (painted) varieties are also common in the aquarium trade.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Three distinct vertical black bars on the anterior half of the body (more prominent in younger specimens), Large, flowing anal fin, particularly in males and long-finned varieties, Deeply compressed body shape

Dorsal fin

Single, relatively tall, and triangular, often black or dark gray, especially in younger fish.

Tail fin

Forked, transparent to slightly dusky.

Pectoral fin

Small, transparent.

Distinctive fins

The anal fin is notably large and extends along a significant portion of the ventral side, often black or dark gray, contributing to the 'skirt' appearance.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Coloration and Stripes

   Look for the characteristic three vertical black stripes on a silvery-gray body, especially in younger individuals. The posterior body and fins are often dark.

2. 2

   Fin Shape

   Observe the large, flowing anal fin, which is a key identifier, particularly in contrast to other small characins.

3. 3

   Body Shape

   Note the deeply compressed, disc-like body shape.

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