Black Emperor Tetra

Black Emperor Tetra : We have long admired the Emperor Tetra, a freshwater fish that is often overlooked. We believe they should receive more attention despite the fact that they are not as well-known as other tetras.

When you see these fish in person, they really shine with a subtle beauty. In addition, they are incredibly simple to maintain!

Black Emperor Tetra (also known as: The popular freshwater fish Nematobrycon palmeri are frequently found in larger community tanks. These fish are great for beginners and experienced fish keepers alike due to their calm demeanor and relatively simple needs.

Emperor Tetras can be found all over Colombia in the wild. They are most prevalent in the San Juan and Atrato river basins.

I. Size

• Average Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)
• Maximum Adult Size: 2 inches
• Swimming Level: top of the tank

II. You would love the fish because…

Black Emperor Tetras  are stunning fish with numerous distinguishing features. The fish has a long, slender shape. Grayish-bluish is the primary color.

However, the iridescent quality of this species’ scales is one of a kind. Sheen is created by purple undertones. In low light, the purple hues are much more obvious.

A prominent black stripe runs alongside that base color. It extends all the way to the tail’s tip from the mouth! If you pay close attention, you might also spot a small blue line with fish directly above the black stripe.

There are also a few small details on the fins. The anal and dorsal fins of the majority of specimens are somewhat yellow. There may also be a black outline on the edge and a red tint where the fin meets the body.

Because of their extreme sexual dimorphism, Emperor Tetras are easy to identify as male or female. Males typically have a shape that is more pointed and slightly longer. In the meantime, the females have larger bodies.

This isn’t all. Additionally, females and males have distinct eye colors! Typically, males have metallic blue eyes, while females typically have metallic green eyes. The tail comes in last. The center of the male’s tail fin is adorned with a prominent ray. It appears to be an extension of that black body stripe at first glance. However, it extends beyond the center, forming the recognizable trident shape.

III. Is this fish species peaceful or hostile?

• Recommended: 5 (1 for every 8L)
• Recommended Male/Female – 1:3
• Overall hostility: Peaceful
• Hostility towards own species: Peaceful
• Hostility towards other Species: Peaceful

IV. Species compatibility

• Danios
• Rasboras
• Corydoras
• Small Plecos
• Pencil Fish
• Dwarf Cichlids

V. How to feed this species?

Emperor tetras in captivity are accustomed to eating frozen, freeze-dried, and flake foods. Daphnia, mosquito larvae, and brine shrimp are all excellent live foods for breeding pairs and are particularly popular.

Recommended food:

• API Life Aayu Pellet
• TetraBits

Word for the wise

Live Plants

Live, frozen food

Aquarium Starter Kit

Filter

Heater

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