White Skirt Tetra

White Skirt Tetra, Gymnocorymbus ternetzi, is a selectively bred color variety of the Black Skirt Tetra, a South American characin native to the Paraguay and Paraná river systems of Brazil, Paraguay, Bolivia, and northern Argentina. The wild species inhabits slow-moving rivers, tributaries, floodplain channels, and vegetated backwaters with submerged roots, aquatic plants, and open swimming areas. These habitats are typically warm, moderately soft, and gently flowing.

Adult White Skirt Tetras typically reach about 2 to 2.5 inches in length. The body is tall and laterally compressed with the characteristic deep profile and extended anal fin that gives the species its "skirted" appearance. Unlike the wild form, the White Skirt Tetra displays a bright white to silvery body with translucent white fins that shimmer under aquarium lighting. Their clean, elegant coloration provides a striking contrast against dark backgrounds and lush green plants, making them a popular choice for planted community aquariums.

A tank of at least 20 gallons is recommended for a proper school, though larger aquariums provide a more impressive display. White Skirt Tetras are active schooling fish and should be maintained in groups of six or more to reduce stress and minimize occasional fin-nipping behavior. The aquarium should provide open swimming space while incorporating plants, driftwood, and shaded areas around the perimeter.

Water conditions should remain stable and clean. Temperatures between 72 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit are appropriate, with a pH range of roughly 6.0 to 7.5 and soft to moderately hard water. White Skirt Tetras are highly adaptable and perform well in a wide range of aquarium conditions provided good water quality is maintained.

Feeding is straightforward. In nature the species consumes insects, larvae, small crustaceans, and plant material. In the aquarium White Skirt Tetras readily accept flakes, pellets, frozen foods such as bloodworms, daphnia, and brine shrimp, along with a variety of prepared foods. A varied diet supports healthy growth and overall condition.

Temperament is generally peaceful but active. White Skirt Tetras are excellent community fish but may occasionally nip the fins of slow-moving or long-finned tankmates, particularly if maintained in groups that are too small. They do best with similarly active community species such as rasboras, danios, rainbowfish, Corydoras, and other tetras.

Breeding is possible in captivity. Like other characins, they are egg scatterers that release eggs among fine-leaved plants or spawning media. Adults provide no parental care and may consume eggs if left in the breeding aquarium.

Gymnocorymbus ternetzi in its White Skirt variety combines the hardy, adaptable nature of the original species with a bright, elegant appearance that stands out in almost any aquarium. When maintained in a proper school, White Skirt Tetras provide constant activity, graceful movement, and striking contrast in peaceful community and planted aquariums.