Description
Black Palmeri Tetra (Gymnocorymbus ternetzi)
📌 Basic Info
Scientific Name: Gymnocorymbus ternetzi
Common Name: Black Palmeri Tetra / Black Skirt Tetra
Size: ~2.5 inches (6 cm)
Lifespan: 3 – 5 years
Tank Zone: Middle swimmers
🌊 Water Parameters
TDS (Total Dissolved Solids): 100 – 250 ppm
pH: 6.0 – 7.5
Temperature: 22°C – 28°C (72°F – 82°F)
Water Type: Soft to moderately hard, well-filtered
🐟 Characteristics
Recognized by their tall body shape and dark vertical bands with a flowing black “skirt”
Hardy, adaptable, and great for beginners
Active swimmers, best in schools
Can sometimes nip fins if kept in too small groups
🍽️ Food
Type: Omnivorous
Diet: Flakes, micro-pellets, frozen/live foods (brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia)
Feeding Frequency: 1–2 times daily, small amounts
🛠️ Maintenance
Weekly water change: 25–30%
Provide a mix of plants and open swimming space
Works well in community tanks but avoid delicate long-finned fish
Very hardy and tolerant of a range of conditions
👥 Social Behavior
Minimum Group Size: 6 (better in 8–10+) → reduces fin-nipping
Tank Mates: Peaceful species – tetras, rasboras, corydoras, barbs (non-aggressive), mollies, gouramis
Avoid: Betta, angelfish, or other long-finned species (may nip fins)
✅ Do’s
Keep in schools to reduce aggression
Add plants + open areas for balance
Use darker substrate to highlight colors
❌ Don’ts
Don’t keep them in pairs/small groups → they may turn aggressive
Don’t mix with slow, long-finned fish
Don’t overstock small tanks
⭐ Quick Tips
A hardy, beginner-friendly tetra with striking black patterns
Best in groups for lively activity and reduced fin-nipping
A great choice for community aquariums with active fish
