Emperor Tetra
Nematobrycon palmeri
Minimum Tank
15 Gallons
Adult Size
2 inches
Temperature
73-81°F (23-27°C)
pH Range
5.5-7.5
Lifespan
6 years
School Size
6+ fish
About Emperor Tetra
The emperor tetra is a regal-looking fish native to the Atrato and San Juan river basins in Colombia. Males develop stunning purple-blue bodies with a bold dark stripe running from nose to tail, accented by iridescent scales and elongated dorsal and caudal fin rays that create a crown-like appearance. Females are less colorful but display an attractive olive-brown tone with the same dark lateral stripe. Emperor tetras are peaceful, mid-water schooling fish that move with a calm, deliberate swimming style quite different from the frantic darting of many smaller tetras. Their subtle elegance and manageable size make them a sophisticated addition to planted community aquariums.
Care Requirements
Tank Setup
- • Minimum 15-gallon tank required
- • Temperature: 73-81°F (23-27°C)
- • pH: 5.5 - 7.5
- • Category: Tetra
Diet & Feeding
- • Diet type: Omnivore
- • Feed 1-2 times daily
- • Varied diet recommended
Tank Mate Compatibility
Compatible With
Avoid Keeping With
Care Tips
Expert Tips
Keep emperor tetras in groups of at least six, ideally with more females than males to spread out male attention. They prefer soft, slightly acidic water at 73-81°F with subdued lighting that highlights their iridescent coloring. A dark substrate and planted background make their colors pop. Emperor tetras are generally peaceful but males may spar mildly for dominance, displaying their extended fins without causing harm. Feed a varied diet of quality flakes, micro-pellets, and frozen foods. They thrive in mature, stable tanks and appreciate the addition of tannins from driftwood or Indian almond leaves.
Quick Facts
57L
Min Tank (15gal)
5cm
Adult Size (2")
6yr
Lifespan
6+
Min School
Build Your Perfect Community Tank
Find compatible tankmates for your Emperor Tetra
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Tank Mates for Emperor Tetra
Species from our database with overlapping water parameters, compatible temperaments and a realistic shared tank size.
Julii Corydoras
Corydoras julii
easy · 15+ gal
Panda Corydoras
Corydoras panda
easy · 10+ gal
Dwarf Gourami
Trichogaster lalius
moderate · 10+ gal
Harlequin Rasbora
Trigonostigma heteromorpha
easy · 10+ gal
Similar Care Level
Other easy-care species that suit a comparable setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size tank does a Emperor Tetra need?
A Emperor Tetra needs a minimum tank size of 15 gallons (57 litres). They should be kept in schools of at least 6.
What water parameters does a Emperor Tetra need?
Emperor Tetra thrive in water between 73-81°F (23-27°C) with a pH of 5.5-7.5.
Are Emperor Tetra easy to care for?
Emperor Tetra are considered easy to care for. They are peaceful fish with a lifespan of about 6 years.
How big do Emperor Tetra get and what do they eat?
Emperor Tetra reach about 2 inches and are omnivores. Keep emperor tetras in groups of at least six, ideally with more females than males to spread out male attention. They prefer soft, slightly acidic water at 73-81°F with subdued lighting that highlights their iridescent coloring. A dark substrate and planted background make their colors pop. Emperor tetras are generally peaceful but males may spar mildly for dominance, displaying their extended fins without causing harm. Feed a varied diet of quality flakes, micro-pellets, and frozen foods. They thrive in mature, stable tanks and appreciate the addition of tannins from driftwood or Indian almond leaves.