How to Identify Black Spot Tetra

To identify Black Spot Tetra (Hyphessobrycon heterorhabdus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Silvery-white base color with three distinct horizontal stripes along the flank: a narrow golden-orange stripe above, a prominent black stripe in the middle, and a white to silvery stripe below. Fins are generally hyaline (transparent), sometimes with a reddish tint, especially in males.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Three distinct horizontal stripes (golden-orange, black, white/silver), Small adipose fin, Relatively deep body for a tetra

Dorsal fin

Single, relatively small dorsal fin located mid-body.

Tail fin

Forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Paired pectoral fins, typically clear.

Distinctive fins

Small, fleshy adipose fin present between the dorsal and caudal fins, characteristic of characins.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Stripe Pattern

   The most defining feature is the three distinct horizontal stripes: golden-orange (dorsal), black (middle), and white/silver (ventral). This pattern is unique among commonly encountered tetras.

2. 2

   Size

   Adults typically reach a maximum standard length of 3.5-4.0 cm (1.4-1.6 inches).

3. 3

   Body Shape

   Laterally compressed body, typical of many Hyphessobrycon species, but slightly deeper than some other slender tetras.

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