Tetra mixup -- what should I do?

[Morainy]

I had 2 large red tetras with black markings near the gills that I thought were serpae tetras.

I thought they looked unhappy by themselves in their 26 gallon tank and so I bought 4 more, almost the same size and identical in colour.

Two days later, I realize that they are not the same fish. The new serpae tetras have more black on their fins than the original fish. I think the 2 originals might be red phantom tetras. http://www.aquahobby.com/gallery/e_M...s_sweglesi.php

Are these fish compatible? Should I keep them together or separate them?

The two red tetras were left in the tank after the other inhabitants (white cloud minnows) were rehomed. I was looking after them for someone who didn't want them back. The original owner thought that they were serpaes but I did notice that they were quite timid (shy with minnows).

I don't think it's as easy to find red phantom tetras as companions for them but I might be able to find some black phantom tetras instead of the serpaes, and move the serpaes into another tank. What do you think?

Thank you!

Edited to add: Reading online, I see that the red phantom tetra seems to like cooler water than the serpae and is also more peaceful. Right now, they are swimming together, though.

[CRS Fan]

Hello Maureen.

The Red Phantoms and Serpaes will be fine together...... I wouldn't be too concerned about the temperature.

Best regards,

Stuart

[Morainy]

Thank you, Stuart. That's very reassuring.

These fish are exceptionally handsome. I don't know why I've never had a tank full. If they get along well together over time, I might move them all into a bigger tank and add more.

Hello Maureen.

The Red Phantoms and Serpaes will be fine together...... I wouldn't be too concerned about the temperature.

Best regards,

Stuart

[April]

Red phantoms
Are
Very nice fish. Peaceful.


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[neven]

i keep red phantoms and black phantoms and (cardinals until i finally bring them to their new home :P) all in the same tank. Both kinds of phantoms actually school together, but the cardinals won't let either phantom species into their clique

[Morainy]

Thank you, April, Neven, and Stuart. So far, the red phantoms (tentative ID, anyway) and the serpae are getting along well. No nipping. However, the serpae tend to hang together and the phantoms tend to hang back a bit.