Emperor Tetras (Nematobrycon palmeri)

Emperor Tetra Care Guide

Tank Size:

• Minimum 80 liters (20 gallons) for a small school.

• Best kept in groups of at least 6–8 to reduce stress and encourage natural schooling behavior.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 23–28°C

• pH: 5.0–7.5

• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (2–15 dGH)

Tank Setup:

• Provide a dark substrate with plants, driftwood, and shaded areas.

• They thrive in slightly dim lighting, which brings out their purple-blue sheen.

• Open swimming space is essential, so balance décor with free areas.

Diet:

• Omnivores – feed a mix of high-quality flakes/pellets, frozen foods (bloodworms, daphnia, brine shrimp), and live foods when possible.

• A varied diet enhances their coloration.

Behavior & Tank Mates:

• Peaceful community fish, but males can be slightly territorial when displaying.

• Good companions include tetras, rasboras, corydoras, and dwarf cichlids.

• Avoid housing with very aggressive or fin-nipping species.

Breeding:

• Can be bred in aquariums with soft, slightly acidic water.

• Provide fine-leaved plants or spawning mops for egg scattering.

• Adults may eat the eggs, so remove them after spawning.

✨ Interesting Fact: Male Emperor Tetras have a unique three-pronged tail, with the center ray extending further than the outer ones, giving them a regal "crown-like" appearance—hence the name Emperor.