Emperor tetra
Nematobrycon palmeri
FishFreshwater
- Care level
- Easy
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Recommended tank
- 80 L
- Maximum size
- 5 cm
- Temperature
- 22–27 °C
- pH
- 5.5–7.5
- Group size
- ≥ 6
- Diet
- Omnivore
Care at a glance
The emperor tetra from western Colombia is purple-blue with a black lengthwise band and eyes that glow turquoise. Adult males develop a trident tail as the middle rays extend, along with a drawn-out dorsal fin.
It is a calm fish that likes to hold in the middle layer and fits well in a planted community tank with subdued light. Keep several females per male and you will regularly see courtship display without it turning into harassment.
Related species
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Values are mainstream hobbyist guidance, not gospel — always watch what your own animals need.