Mourners are definitely better known as black tetras. Although they do not shimmer with colors like many other species, they are much appreciated by many experienced aquarists. However, these animals are also recommended for those who are just starting their adventure with this hobby. Before you buy such fish, it is worth knowing their requirements in detail. Read on and find out what a mourner fish needs!
Common mourner – where does she come from?
Like many aquarium fish, the mourner is native to South America. In nature, it can be found in Bolivia, Paraguay and Brazil. Black tetra lives in rivers with fairly calm and slowly flowing waters. These fish like places with a lot of vegetation. They can also be found in backwaters near larger rivers.
Tetra black – appearance and disposition
Mourners grow up to 6-8 centimeters. In this species, there is a very significant sexual dimorphism, which means that the male is very easy to distinguish from the female. The latter has a much more rounded body and its caudal fin is brighter. Males are slender and slightly smaller. Adult fish are light gray in color.
There are several more ornamental varieties in breeding:
- veil;
- White;
- Red.
Among aquarists, mourners have a reputation for being peaceful fish. They are mobile animals, but by no means impose themselves on their neighbors and do not pose any threat to them. These shoal fish should live in herds of at least six individuals.
Tetra mourner – what aquarium?
These are the basic requirements for these pets.
- Mourners require an aquarium in which they will have plenty of free space to swim. Ideally, a flock of six fish should live in a tank of not less than 100 liters.
- In nature, tetras live in waters full of vegetation, so in the aquarium they should also have access to plants that serve as a hiding place and a place to sleep.
Water parameters for mourners
Here are the conditions that should prevail in an aquarium with black tetras:
- temperature – from 20 to 26 degrees Celsius;
- pH – from 6 to 7;
- hardness – from 5 to 20 degrees dGH.
Filtration should be efficient, but without strong currents. It is a good idea to change at least 10% of the water every week. This will avoid the growth of algae and unwanted excess organisms such as broths.
What kind of fish can mourners live with?
The black tetra will feel good in both the species and social aquarium. It is a peaceful fish that can live, among others, with:
- defenseless fighters;
- kiryskami;
- displacers;
- razborami;
- danio.
However, it is better to avoid keeping mourners with fish that have very veil-like fins. Tetras have a tendency to chew on them sometimes. This happens rarely and when the fish are bored, but it’s better to minimize the risk. The more company of your own species, the less chance that the tetras will catch on other aquarium inhabitants.
Mourner fish – nutrition
The mourner is an omnivorous fish that can eat any kind of wholesome fish food. Both flake and granular mixes will work well.
Of course, it is very important to avoid a diet that is too monotonous. Add variety to your daily meals with frozen and live food. The latter will be irreplaceable just before spawning, if you plan to breed mourners in home breeding.
Mourner fish – reproduction
Breeding the mourner at home is not a particularly difficult task. These fish, however, tend to eat their eggs, so the best idea is to put them in the breeding box during spawning. A small 30-liter tank is enough.
- Before spawning, fish should be fed copiously, preferably live and frozen food.
- You can breed them in pairs. There may also be two females per one male.
- Cover the spawning aquarium with plenty of moss or a special aquarium mop.
- The eggs appear after 3-4 days. When you spot it, put the adults in the main tank to keep it from being eaten.
- The fry hatch after a few days. It can be successfully fed with gel plankton.
Is the tetra suitable for beginner aquarists?
Black tetra is a fish that does not have particularly high demands and can live in a medium-sized tank. This does not mean, however, that it tolerates the oversubscription. Here’s a handful of basic tips.
- Remember that friction and fights can occur in overcrowded tanks inhabited by representatives of the gentle species.
- Above all, make sure you have a balance between the lush vegetation and the swimming area. Mourners like both. They are mobile animals with plenty of energy and a tank that is too short can frustrate them.
- It is also very important that mourners are shoal fish. They feel best in groups of at least six members of their species. Neighbors can also be tetras of other color varieties.
Mourners – summary
Mourners are small fish that are a great proposition for beginner aquarists. They will fit well in both the social and species aquarium. Just make sure they have the company of their own kind.
In addition to the black mourning, there are also other varieties of tetras, which can also be kept in one shoal. Breeding and feeding of these fish is not particularly difficult, although both should be planned in the most thoughtful way.