Black Skirt Tetras (Gymnocorymbus ternetzi) are a unique addition to community tanks. While other species of the Characidae family are known for being bright and colorful, these fish take on a darker appearance. Even still, they are quite beautiful and stand out in well-kept aquariums.
Typically, the average Black Skirt Tetra lifespan is between 3 and 5 years in captivity. There have been some reported instances where these fish have outlived this average range, but it’s not common.
This fish species is affected by poor water conditions and a lackluster environment. To ensure that your fish live to the end of their life, you need to maintain the tank and provide a stress-free habitat.
Here are some important parameters to stick to when you’re setting up a tank for Black Skirt Tetras.
Because they are shoaling fish, we recommend that you keep a decent group of Black Skirt Tetras together.
At the very least, you need a group of 5 fish to keep them happy. However, we recommend getting even more if you have space for them!
A larger group makes the fish feel more comfortable and confident in their surroundings. In situations where this species has exceeded its expected lifespan, they’ve almost always been in a big group.
Try to avoid fish that show signs of aggression (the more peaceful the better). This is because Black Skirt Tetras can become targets due to their passive nature. Plus, their long fins are the target of fin nippers.
The funny thing is that this species tends to nip when they have the opportunity as well. For that reason, we recommend avoiding any long-finned fish species.