Emperor Tetra (Nematobrycon palmeri)

Fish in the family Characidae. Easy care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific nameNematobrycon palmeri

FamilyCharacidae

Care levelEasy

Reef safetyFreshwater

TemperamentPeaceful

Dietomnivore

Adult size2 in

Minimum tank size20 gallons

Water parametersTemp 73-81°F, pH 5.5-7.5, GH 3-15 dGH

Appearance

Purple-blue iridescent body with a broad black stripe ending in a central tail spike; males have blue-green eyes and a trident tail.

Difficulty and care for the Emperor Tetra

Easy

Origin and habitat

South America (San Juan and Atrato basins, Colombia)

Keeper notes

Generally peaceful; dominant males may spar to establish a loose hierarchy but rarely harm tankmates.

Log Emperor Tetra in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Emperor Tetra alongside everything else in your reef.

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