![]() ![]() If you plan to keep them with other species, go with 30 gallons or more. Remember that these fish love to swim, so if you can go with a larger tank, that will make your fish more comfortable and provide a good amount of dedicated swimming space. Select a tank size based on the number of fish you wish to keep and whether you plan on a single species or community tank.Ī 10- to-20-gallon tank is sufficient for a small group of emperor tetras as a single species tank. More space is always preferred, however, as this tetra species loves to swim. The emperor tetra grows to an adult length of two inches (5 cm), so a 10-gallon tank could hold a group of up to five. How many per gallon?įollow the general rule of thumb of one gallon of water per inch of fish. Having a group of tetras helps to reduce any stress or aggressive behavior. Males, however, can be somewhat aggressive when they are competing for females or if the tank is overcrowded.Īre emperor tetras fin nippers? Emperor tetras are peaceful toward their tank mates and do not usually nip at the fins of other species if the tetras are kept in a group.Īre emperor tetras schooling fish? Not typically, however, they will often shoal if you keep a large group of them. Keeping the tetras in a group of five to ten can go one step further toward a peaceful tank. They will also take time to explore the bottom and swim among the leaves of plants.Īre emperor tetras aggressive? This fish has a gentle temperament and gets along well with other species. BehaviorĮmperor tetras are active, darting swimmers that will spend most of their time in the middle to upper levels of the tank. This is unusual for a fish this small.Īs always, keeping on top of water quality, pairing them with appropriate tank mates, and feeding them a high-quality diet can help them live a longer, healthy life. How long do emperor tetras live? A well-cared-for emperor tetra can have a long lifespan of up to six years. Take this smaller size into consideration when selecting tank mates, and do not pair them with larger, more aggressive fish that may view the tiny tetras as food. The emperor is a smaller tetra species, only reaching about two inches (5 cm) in length as an adult. The males tend to be larger and more streamlined, while the females are smaller and more rounded in the body.Īlso, the male emperor tetra’s eyes are a bright blue whereas the females’ eyes are green. Tail shape is not the only difference between males and females. The male’s tail fin is especially attractive as the black line traveling the length of the body continues into a pointed, extended center section, giving the tail a three-pronged look. The male of the species has longer dorsal and tail fins. This tetra’s uniquely shaped fins are a flowing yellow lined with black. In brighter light, the scales can appear almost golden. Male emperor with blue eyes and extended finsĪ fascinating thing about this fish’s coloration is that it shifts depending on the lighting. In some specimens, you might see a blue neon line above the black one and a lighter belly beneath. A thick, black line extends the length of the body from behind the eye all the way through the tail fin. Taking the traditional royal colors of purple and gold, this fish has a long, slender body with shimmering scales. The emperor tetra ( Nematobrycon palmeri) may not be the flashiest fish around, but there is no doubt it has a regal look. Heavily vegetated with dark, sandy bottoms, these rivers provide plenty of hiding places and a variety of foods for this omnivore.The plant matter also provides significant shading and decomposing matter keeps the waters soft. ![]() These basins contain slower-moving streams and tributaries as well as warmer waters in which the emperor tetra thrives. Its largest numbers exist in the San Juan and Atrato river basins. The emperor tetra’s native habitat is the rivers of Colombia. At a Glance Tank Size:īonded pairs or small school of 5 or 6 with one male Read on to learn some facts about this tetra species, including how to care for it and tips for breeding. ![]() Whether you are planning a single species or a community tank, the emperor tetra is a great choice to include. It has the added benefit of a wonderfully peaceful disposition, making it ideal to pair with others. The emperor tetra is easy to care for, hardy, and relatively long-lived for such a small species. This tiny species is a freshwater favorite in the aquarium hobby for many reasons beyond its good looks. Light plays off its scales as it weaves among the leaves of plants to rejoin its group. Shimmering, small, and sporting a sleek streamline, the emperor tetra dances around the tank in darting motions. ![]()
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