Where Beauty Meets Community

The Long Fin Black Skirt Tetra is a showpiece that proves community fish don’t have to fade into the background. With their trailing fins and bold black-and-silver coloration, these fish bring gothic elegance to a planted aquarium. Whether darting in a group or gliding slowly through the water, they stand out as both dramatic and peaceful additions to any community tank.

Why Keep Long Fin Black Skirt Tetras?

These tetras are the perfect blend of hardy and stunning. They thrive in schools of six or more, where their flowing fins and synchronized movements create a mesmerizing display. They’re also hardy enough for beginners while still captivating enough to impress seasoned aquarists.

Did you know? These tetras show their best colors and behavior when kept in schools of six or more.

Why You Should Get These Fish

• Elegant Showpiece: Their long fins and bold contrast make them look like floating ribbons of silk.

• Peaceful Schooling Fish: They mix beautifully in planted community tanks and add constant movement.

• Hardy and Adaptable: Great for beginners who want something striking without being fragile.

Why You Should Not

• Not Fin-Nip Proof: Avoid housing them with aggressive or fin-nipping species — their long fins are easy targets.

• Tank Size Matters: A small group in a cramped tank can become stressed and dull in color; they need room to school.

• Shrimp Keepers Beware: While peaceful, they may snack on baby shrimp if given the chance.

Aquascaping With Drama

Their dark bodies and extended fins contrast beautifully against a lush, green background. Pair them with broad-leaf plants like Amazon swords, tall Vallisneria, or vibrant red Ludwigia for a tank that looks like an underwater stage. Add driftwood or darker substrates to deepen their gothic presence.

Feeding for Health and Color

Like most tetras, Long Fin Black Skirts are omnivores that enjoy a varied diet. High-quality flakes or micro-pellets form the foundation, while frozen or live foods like daphnia or brine shrimp bring out their energy and keep them vibrant.

Selective breeding gave this tetra its long, flowing fins — a dramatic twist on the classic Black Skirt

Schooling, Personality, and Tankmates

Though their look screams “drama,” their behavior is peaceful and social. They’re happiest in schools, where their movement becomes more confident and dynamic. They mix well with other calm community fish such as Corydoras, smaller gouramis, and most livebearers. Just avoid fin-nipping species — those long fins are simply too tempting for some fish.

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Q&A

Q: How big do Long Fin Black Skirt Tetras get?
A: They typically reach about 2 inches (5 cm) in length, with their fins extending even further.

Q: How long do they live?
A: With good care, they can live 5 years or more.

Q: How many should I keep together?
A: At least six. The bigger the school, the more natural and active their behavior becomes.

Q: Are they good for beginners?
A: Yes, they’re hardy, adaptable, and forgiving of small mistakes.

Q: Will they eat shrimp?
A: They may go after baby shrimp, but adult Neocaridina or Amano shrimp are usually safe.

Q: Do they need a planted tank?
A: Not required, but plants and décor really enhance their striking appearance.

Q: Can they live with bettas?
A: Generally no — bettas may mistake their flowing fins as competition.

Q: What’s the minimum tank size?
A: A 20-gallon tank is recommended to give their school room to move.

Q: Do they nip fins?
A: The long-fin variety is less likely to nip than standard skirts, but crowded or stressed conditions can trigger it.

Q: What makes them unique compared to regular Black Skirt Tetras?
A: Their flowing fins give them a far more elegant and dramatic look, making them a centerpiece rather than just part of the school.

 

The Long Fin Black Skirt Tetra is proof that community fish can be both hardy and breathtaking. With their dramatic fins, peaceful schooling nature, and striking contrast against live plants, they’re a fish that transforms any aquarium into a living work of art. Whether you’re a beginner looking for something eye-catching or a seasoned aquarist seeking a new showpiece, these gothic beauties deliver on every level.