Tetra – Emperor Tetra 3cm

Emperor Tetra (Nematobrycon palmeri)

The Emperor Tetra captivates aquarists with its regal appearance and tranquil temperament. Found in Colombia’s slow-moving rivers and streams, this elegant fish brings grace and activity to aquariums.

Appearance

Emperor Tetras display elongated bodies with metallic tones of blue, purple, and gold, highlighted by a bold black stripe running from nose to tail. Males showcase a lyre-shaped tail fin, while females have a more rounded tail. Reaching up to 5-6 cm in length, these tetras stand out as sophisticated additions to any aquarium.

Aquarium Care

A tank of at least 60 litres suits Emperor Tetras well, providing ample space for their active swimming. Maintain soft, slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 and a temperature of 23°C to 27°C. Include dense plants, driftwood, and open swimming areas to mimic their natural environment. Regular water changes and efficient filtration are key to keeping them healthy and vibrant.

Tank Mates

Emperor Tetras thrive in groups of 6 or more, which helps them feel secure and display natural behaviours. They pair well with other peaceful species such as rasboras, Corydoras catfish, dwarf gouramis, and smaller tetras. Avoid aggressive or fin-nipping tank mates to ensure a harmonious setup.

Feeding & Nutrition

As omnivores, Emperor Tetras benefit from a varied diet. Offer high-quality flakes or micro pellets as a staple, supplemented with live or frozen options like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. Adding plant-based foods such as spirulina flakes or blanched vegetables provides balanced nutrition. Feed them small portions 2-3 times daily.

Lifespan

With attentive care, Emperor Tetras can live 5-6 years, offering enduring beauty and energy in a well-maintained aquarium.

FAQs

What size tank suits Emperor Tetras?
A minimum of 60 litres with plants and open swimming spaces is ideal.

Can Emperor Tetras coexist with other fish?
Yes, they do well with peaceful species like rasboras and Corydoras catfish.

How often should I feed my Emperor Tetras?
Feed them 2-3 times daily with a mix of flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods.

Do Emperor Tetras need to live in groups?
Yes, keeping them in groups of 6 or more ensures their well-being and natural behaviour.

How long do Emperor Tetras live?
With proper care, they can live up to 5-6 years.

Species Overview

• Species: Nematobrycon palmeri
• Common Name: Emperor Tetra
• Origin: Colombia
• Diet: Omnivore
• PH Range: 6.0 – 7.5
• Temperature: 23°C – 27°C
• Max Size: Approximately 5-6 cm
• Sex: Males have a lyre-shaped tail; females have a rounded tail.