Golden Black Widow Tetra 3.5cm

Golden Black Widow Tetra
 

Almost looking like a totally different species, the golden or white widow tetra is actually a colour variation of the underrated but amazing black widow tetra. The standard black widow tetra is often overlooked because of the monotone colouration however the golden widow tetras are vibrant and shiny and their unique body shape along with their phenomenal schooling behavior is something that is only truly appreciated when kept. 

Golden widow tetras have a characteristic coin-like body shape which makes them look similar to the larger growing silver dollar species or pacu. Whilst the latter fish may get far too big for most aquarists the golden black widow tetra stays at a maximum size of 6cm which makes them great for smaller aquariums. They have a really unique creamy, pink body colour which is highlighted by silver and platinum scales across the body. They often shine and glimmer under the aquarium lights and are also really hardy fish. They can tolerate cold water temperatures which makes them a great tetra for beginner aquariums and because of their community aquarium tolerance, they are also extremely peaceful fish.

Breeding these fish in captivity is somewhat easy where females tend to have rounder bellies than males. Females will scatter eggs through the aquarium and males follow by fertilizing. The wild origin of cardinal tetras is South America.

Tank Recommendations for your Golden Black Widow Tetra

Being a small and relatively easy to care for fish the golden widow tetra can be kept in nano aquariums with the minimum being 75 liters. This aquarium size allows for a decent school of at least 5 along with other community fish if required. A sand or gravel substrate would be fine for these fish as well as a lot of plant growth which not only makes them contrast really well but also makes them more comfortable in the aquarium. 

Suitable Tank Buddies

The golden black widow is an extremely peaceful fish that displays no aggression, they can be kept with a wide range of fish being top, bottom, and mid dweller fish. 

Usually Compatible

Discus, Angelfish, glow light tetras, neon tetras, Apistogramma, rams, and a range of dwarf/nano peaceful fish.  

Sometimes Compatible

The golden widow can be done have large fins and can be quite slow at times which means fin-nipping species should be avoided. 

Rarely Compatible

Large and aggressive species such as black sharks, synodontis catfish and larger mouthed community fish which may prey on the tetras.

Feeding your Golden Black Widow tetra

Golden Black Widow tetras are a very easy fish to feed. They will take a wide range of pellets, flakes and frozen foods. Just like any fish though they should be fed a varied diet with a mix of different foods.

The ideal diet would be a good quality micro slow sinking pellet or crushed flake, supplemented with frozen bloodworms or black worms or even live foods like baby brine shrimp or micro worms.