Emperor Tetra (Nematobrycon palmeri)

The Emperor Tetra (Nematobrycon palmeri) is a beautiful and peaceful freshwater fish native to the rivers and streams of Colombia. Known for its elegant dark body, distinctive purple-blue coloration, and striking reddish-orange eyes, this small schooling fish is a popular choice for planted aquariums and peaceful community tanks.

Active, peaceful, and easy to care for, the Emperor Tetra looks especially attractive when kept in a group. Its subtle colors become more pronounced under suitable aquarium lighting and with good water quality, making it an excellent addition to natural-looking community aquariums.

What We Like About This Fish

• Beautiful purple-blue and dark body coloration
• Distinctive reddish-orange eyes
• Peaceful and active community fish
• Excellent schooling behavior
• Ideal for planted and natural-style aquariums
• Relatively easy to care for
• Looks best when kept in a proper group

Recommended Tank Parameters

• Tank Size: Minimum 60 liters (15 gallons)
• Temperature: 23–28°C (73–82°F)
• pH: 5.5–7.5
• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard
• Water Flow: Gentle to moderate

A well-planted aquarium with driftwood, shaded areas, and open swimming space provides an ideal environment for Emperor Tetras. Floating plants can also help create a more natural and comfortable environment.

Care Guidelines

Diet: Omnivorous. Feed a varied diet of high-quality flakes and micro pellets supplemented with frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, daphnia, and brine shrimp. Small, regular meals help maintain good health and coloration.

Social Behavior: Peaceful and social. Emperor Tetras should be kept in groups of at least 6, with larger groups providing more natural schooling behavior and increased confidence. They are suitable for peaceful community aquariums with similarly sized tank mates.

Origin

South America – Colombia

Average Adult Size

Approximately 4–5 cm (1.5–2 inches)

Average Purchase Size

Approximately 2–3 cm (0.8–1.2 inches)

Schooling Fish

Yes. Emperor Tetras are social schooling fish and should ideally be kept in groups of 6 or more.

Shrimp Safe

Mostly yes with adult shrimp. They are generally compatible with adult dwarf shrimp, but may eat newly hatched shrimp and very small shrimplets when given the opportunity.

The Emperor Tetra is an excellent choice for aquarists looking for a peaceful, colorful, and active schooling fish. With a suitable group, planted aquarium, good water quality, and a varied diet, these elegant tetras can become a beautiful addition to a community aquarium.