Can Black Skirt Tetra Live With Apistogramma?
Black Skirt Tetra and Apistogramma may coexist with careful monitoring, adequate space, and hiding spots.
Conditions: Minimum 20 gallon tank.
Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | Black Skirt Tetra | Apistogramma | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 70–82°F | 73–84°F | 73–82°F ✓ |
| pH Range | 6–7.5 | 5–7 | 6–7 ✓ |
| Temperament | peaceful | semi-aggressive | Monitor ⚠ |
| Max Size | 3" | 3" | Similar ✓ |
| Min Tank Size | 15 gal | 20 gal | 20 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Omnivore | Carnivore | — |
| Care Level | beginner | intermediate | — |
Tank Requirements for Black Skirt Tetra + Apistogramma
To keep Black Skirt Tetra and Apistogramma together, you need at minimum a 20 gallon tank. Black Skirt Tetra should be kept in a school of 6+. Provide adequate filtration, stable temperature with a heater, and hiding spots to reduce stress.
Species Profiles
Black Skirt Tetra
Gymnocorymbus ternetzi
Black skirt tetras (also sold as black widow tetras) are hardy, easy-to-care-for schooling fish with a distinctive flowing black anal fin that gives them their name. They come in natural silver-and-black and various dyed/modified versions (GloFish). The natural form is the healthiest choice. They can be mild fin nippers in small groups but are generally well-behaved community fish.
Full care guide →Apistogramma
Apistogramma cacatuoides
The Apistogramma (Apistogramma cacatuoides) is a intermediate-level freshwater fish growing to 3 inches. Semi-aggressive temperament, minimum 20 gallon tank.
Full care guide →