๐Ÿ  Fish Compatibility Guide

Can Black Phantom Tetra and Severum Cichlid Live Together?

Updated September 23, 2026 ยท FishCare AI Editorial Team

โŒ Not Compatible โ€” Compatibility Score: 32/100
32/100 โ€” Not Compatible

Black Phantom Tetra and Severum Cichlid Compatibility Overview

Black Phantom Tetra and Severum Cichlid are generally not recommended to be housed together. The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.

Compatibility factors for Black Phantom Tetra and Severum Cichlid
FactorBlack Phantom TetraSeverum CichlidVerdict
Temperature68โ€“82ยฐF72โ€“84ยฐFโœ… 72โ€“82ยฐF
pH Range5.0โ€“7.05.5โ€“7.0โœ… 5.5โ€“7.0
Temperamentpeacefulsemiโš ๏ธ Monitor
Adult Size1.4 in11.8 inโŒ 8ร— difference
Min. Group8+1+See below
Min. Tank Size100 gallons (for both species)โ€”

Compatibility Positives

A stable shared temperature range is available.
Their pH requirements overlap.
Temperament risk is relatively low when normal group sizes are maintained.

Incompatibility Reasons

The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk.

Species Profiles

Black Phantom Tetra โ€” Hyphessobrycon megalopterus

Black Phantom Tetra and Severum Cichlid compatibility โ€” Black Phantom Tetra

The Black Phantom Tetra is a popular freshwater fish known for its striking black and silver coloration. It is generally peaceful and can be kept in a community tank with other non-aggressive species. They require a well-maintained tank with a moderate water flow and a good cover of plants.

โ†’ Full Black Phantom Tetra care guide

Severum Cichlid โ€” Heros efasciatus

Black Phantom Tetra and Severum Cichlid compatibility โ€” Severum Cichlid

The Severum Cichlid, known for its vibrant colors and peaceful nature, is a popular choice for freshwater aquariums. They have a lifespan of around 5 years and require a minimum tank size of 80 liters. These fish are not schooling fish but are known to be gentle and compatible with a variety of tank mates.

โ†’ Full Severum Cichlid care guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Black Phantom Tetra live with Severum Cichlid?

Generally not recommended. Black Phantom Tetra and Severum Cichlid are generally not recommended to be housed together. The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.

What tank size do I need for Black Phantom Tetra and Severum Cichlid together?

A minimum of 100 gallons is recommended for keeping Black Phantom Tetra and Severum Cichlid together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.

What temperature suits both Black Phantom Tetra and Severum Cichlid?

72โ€“82ยฐF โ€” inside Black Phantom Tetra's 68โ€“82ยฐF and Severum Cichlid's 72โ€“84ยฐF.

Is a Black Phantom Tetra aggressive toward a Severum Cichlid?

The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk.

Related Compatibility Guides

Tank Size for Black Phantom Tetra and Severum Cichlid

Use the scenario that matches the actual group sizes and temperament you plan to keep.

ScenarioTankWhen it applies
Minimum viable100 galOnly for the recommended minimum groups, mature filtration, and close monitoring.
Recommended community150 galAdds territory, swimming room, and a safer buffer for behavior.
Low-conflict setup220 galBest when keeping larger schools or reducing territorial pressure.