How to Identify Red Phantom Tetra

To identify Red Phantom Tetra (Hyphessobrycon sweglesi), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Body is typically translucent, ranging from silvery to a faint reddish-brown, with a prominent black humeral spot. Fins, especially the dorsal, anal, and caudal, are intensely red, often with black and white markings on the dorsal fin of males. The intensity of red coloration can vary based on mood, health, and environmental conditions.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Prominent black humeral spot, often with a red/orange halo., Intense red coloration on dorsal and anal fins., Males exhibit an elongated dorsal fin with a black leading edge and white tip., Relatively deep body for a small tetra.

Dorsal fin

Adipose fin present. Dorsal fin is relatively tall, especially in males, often with a black leading edge and a white tip. Typically has 2 unbranched and 8 branched rays.

Tail fin

Forked caudal fin, typically reddish.

Pectoral fin

Small and clear, with 1 unbranched and 9-10 branched rays.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin is relatively long, extending along the posterior ventral side, and is typically red. Pelvic fins are small and often reddish.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Humeral Spot

   Look for the distinct, often oval-shaped, black spot located just behind the gill cover, usually surrounded by a reddish or orange pigment.

2. 2

   Fin Coloration

   Observe the vibrant red coloration on the dorsal and anal fins. Males often have a more pronounced black and white pattern on the dorsal fin.

3. 3

   Body Shape

   Note the compressed, somewhat deep body, which distinguishes it from more slender tetra species.

4. 4

   Schooling Behavior

   In an aquarium setting, they are almost always found in a school, a key behavioral identifier.

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