[Ebook] 500 freshwater aquarium fish – Characoids – Black Widow (Gymnocorymbus ternetzi)

This species has been popular ever since its introduction into Europe in 1935. For many years, the basic—and very beautiful—wild type was the only form available. However, over time several fin and color varieties have been developed, including a long-finned, large-bodied white type and a reddish/pinkish one. Two other species with the same basic requirements are also available, but not as frequently as the Black Widow: G. socolofi (Socolof ‘s Tetra) from the Meta River in Colombia and C. thayeri (Straight- finned Black Tetra) from the Amazon and Orinoco basins.

Other common name

• Black Tetra

Family

• Characidae

Subfamily

• Tetragonopterinae

Distribution

• Paraguay River, Bolivian section of the Guapore, and the Brazilian Mato Grosso.

Size

• Wild type around 2 1/4in (5.5cm); larger for some cultivated varieties.

Behavior

• Peaceful shoaler.

Diet

• Most commercial formulations and livefoods accepted.

Aquarium

• Well planted, with some open swimming spaces, and tannin-stained water recommended. Soft, acid water preferred; some deviation from this accepted, though raw water must be avoided. Temperature range: 68-82 F (20-28 C).

Breeding

• Eggs are scattered among vegetation and may be eaten by the spawners. Hatching takes about 1 day.