Temperature: 68-79 F (20-26 C)
Description
One of the most well known representatives of the tetra family, the black widow is easily recognized by the distinctive black dorsal and anal fins, and vertical black stripes on its body. A number of long-finned and color varieties have been produced, some of which are artificially colored. Most notable of the color variations are the pastel blue and pink varieties, which are achieved via dyes. Any fish that may have been artificially colored should be avoided. One it achieves its mature size at approximately one year, the dark coloration slowly begins to fade to a silvery gray. They remain relatively small, reaching an adult length of approximately two inches.
A schooling fish by nature, black widows are best kept in groups of three or more. Due to their peaceful nature, they make an excellent community fish. Some owners report that they sometimes nip the fins of slower moving fish, particularly those with long flowing fins such as Bettas or Angelfish..
Habitat/Care
Black widows are undemanding species that will adapt to a range of conditions. Subdued lighting as well as neutral colored gravel substrate is preferred. They are accustomed to large plants in their natural habitat, and enjoy a planted aquarium. Water parameters may range from acidic to alkaline, and hard to soft. Ideally they should initially be matched to the water conditions from the supplier..
Diet
Virtually any kind of live, fresh, frozen, freeze dried, or flake foods are suitable. For optimal health, provide a variety of foods that include high quality flake foods, brine shrimp, any type of worms, as well as vegetable supplements such as spirolina.
Breeding
Female black widows are generally larger than the males and have a rounder body. In the female the anal fin runs parallel with the vertical black stripe in her abdomen. Males are smaller, have a broader anal fin, and a narrower more pointed dorsal fin. Males occasionally have white spots on the caudal fin.
Larger males will generally claim a territory that they will guard during spawning periods. Although they are egg scatters they prefer to spawn among fine-leaved plants, which should be provided in the breeding tank. Once spawning has occurred the parents should be removed, as they will consume the eggs. Eggs will hatch after approximately one day. The fry may be fed freshly hatched brine shrimp, egg yolk, or finely ground flake foods.
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