Mary Allen
Introduction
Aquariums are a wonderful way to bring a touch of nature into your home. Fish tanks, in particular, are a great way to add color and life to any room. One of the most popular aquarium fish is the Black Skirt Tetra. If you’re wondering what the scientific name is for this fascinating fish, then read on!
The Black Skirt Tetra: A Popular Aquarium Fish
The Black Skirt Tetra is a favorite of many aquarium enthusiasts. They are peaceful, easy to care for, and have a striking appearance. These fish are typically black in color with a distinctive white stripe along the bottom of their body. They are also known for their flowing, skirt-like fins which give them their name.
Physical Characteristics of the Black Skirt Tetra
The Black Skirt Tetra is a small fish, growing to only about 3 inches in length. They have a rounded body and a small head, with a mouth that faces downwards. As mentioned earlier, their most striking feature is their black coloration and white stripe. They also have long, flowing fins that resemble a skirt. Males and females look very similar, but males tend to be smaller and slimmer than females.
Habitat and Distribution of the Black Skirt Tetra
The Black Skirt Tetra is native to South America, specifically the Paraguay and Paraná River basins. They are found in slow-moving rivers and streams with lots of vegetation. In the wild, they live in large schools and prefer to swim in the middle and upper levels of the water column.
What is the Scientific Name for Black Skirt Tetra?
The scientific name for Black Skirt Tetra is Gymnocorymbus ternetzi. It was first described by Carl H. Eigenmann in 1925. The species name, ternetzi, is in honor of Dr. George Ternetz, an aquarium fish importer who supplied the type specimens for the original description.
Taxonomic Classification of the Black Skirt Tetra
The Black Skirt Tetra belongs to the family Characidae, which includes other popular aquarium fish such as tetras, hatchetfish, and pencilfish. Within the family, it belongs to the genus Gymnocorymbus, which contains only two other species.
Common Names of the Black Skirt Tetra
Apart from its scientific name, the Black Skirt Tetra is known by several common names. Some of these include "Black Widow Tetra", "Petticoat Tetra", "Skirt Tetra", and "High-Fin Black Skirt Tetra".
Conclusion: A Fascinating Fish with a Unique Name
The Black Skirt Tetra is a wonderful addition to any aquarium. Its striking appearance, ease of care, and peaceful nature make it a favorite among hobbyists. And with a scientific name as unique as Gymnocorymbus ternetzi, it’s no wonder this fish is so fascinating!