Species profile
Black Darter Tetra
Poecilocharax weitzmani
Semi aggressive
Hard care
60 L minimum aquarium
3–4 cm adult size
Bottom–mid
Minimum group: 4
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Needs genuinely soft acidic water and subdued conditions. Calling it a standard six-fish schooling tetra gives the wrong husbandry picture.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
21–28 °C
pH
3.5–6.5
GH
0–5 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Low
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 4
Tank zone
Bottom–mid
Territory level
Moderate
Predation risk
Shrimp fry
Bioload factor
0.5
Not a typical open-water schooling tetra. Males establish small territories around cover and caves; keep multiple shelters and very calm tankmates.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
Yes
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Low
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
3–5 years
Diet type
Carnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
60 L
Minimum footprint
60 × 30 cm
Accepted scientific name
Poecilocharax weitzmani
Alternative names
Black Morpho Tetra, Weitzman's Darter Tetra
Native range
Upper Amazon and Orinoco blackwater regions of South America.
Natural habitat
Very soft acidic forest streams and blackwater margins with leaf litter, roots, submerged wood and low light.
Diet & feeding
Micropredator feeding on tiny crustaceans, worms and insect larvae; use small live/frozen foods and fine prepared foods if accepted.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Males are more colourful with longer, more ornate fins; females are smaller/plainer and fuller when ripe.
Breeding
Cave/substrate spawner. Eggs are deposited on the roof or walls of a small shelter and the male guards the clutch.