Emperor tetra
Nematobrycon palmeri · Characidae
Also known as Blue emperor
Intermediate
Purple-blue with a trident tail and unusual blue-green eyes; males display constantly.
In short: An emperor tetra needs at least 110 L (29 US gal), water at 23–27 °C (73–81 °F) and pH 5.5–7.5. It is peaceful, best kept in groups of 6 or more, and rated intermediate to keep.
Updated
- Minimum tank
- 110 L (29 US gal)
- Temperature
- 23–27 °C (73–81 °F)
- pH
- 5.5–7.5
- Adult size
- 5 cm (2 in)
- Group size
- 6+
Care requirements
- Minimum tank volume
- 110 L (29 US gal)
- Temperature
- 23–27 °C (73–81 °F)
- pH
- 5.5–7.5
- Hardness
- 2–12 dGH
- Lifespan
- 3–6 years
- Diet
- Omnivore — micro pellets, flake, frozen daphnia.
- Care level
- Intermediate
Origin & habitat
- Native region
- Rio Atrato and San Juan basins, Colombia
- Water type
- Freshwater
- Biotope
- Shaded forest streams
- Natural conditions
- Soft, slightly acidic, dim planted water.
Behaviour & stocking
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Minimum group
- 6 fish
- Swims
- Mid-water
- Good tank mates
- CorydorasApistogrammaRasboras
- Avoid
- Boisterous barbsLarge cichlids
Breeding & difficulty
- Breeding difficulty
- Intermediate
- Sexing
- Males have a long central tail ray and dark fins.
- Notes
- Lays eggs singly in moss; fry are tiny.
- Common ailments
- IchFin rot
Will it fit your tank?
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