Emperor Tetra (Nematobrycon palmeri) Care Guide

A regal tetra with iridescent blue-purple body coloration and distinctive three-pronged tail fin in males. The striking eye color ranges from blue-green to gold.

Overview

Nematobrycon palmeri is a species in the family Characidae. A regal tetra with iridescent blue-purple body coloration and distinctive three-pronged tail fin in males. The striking eye color ranges from blue-green to gold. One of the most elegant small tetras, peaceful and well-suited for planted community tanks.

Taxonomy

Family: Characidae
Genus: Nematobrycon
Scientific name: Nematobrycon palmeri
Origin: South America, Colombia

Habitat

Endemic to the San Juan and Atrato river basins of western Colombia. Inhabits slow, soft, acidic forest streams. Males develop a long central caudal-fin filament and blue-purple iridescence; the eye glows metallic blue under good lighting.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 60 L
Temperature: 23-27 °C
pH: 5.5-7.5
GH: 3-12 °dGH
Water flow: low
Adult size: 4-6 cm
Lifespan: 3-6 years
Recommended group size: ≥ 6
Difficulty: beginner

Diet

Classified as omnivore. Recommended feeding frequency: 2x daily. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.

Compatibility

Temperament: peaceful
Swimming level: middle
Compatible tank mates: Corydoras, Harlequin Rasbora, Cherry Shrimp, Otocinclus, Bristlenose Pleco
Avoid with: Betta, Tiger Barb, Aggressive Fish

Breeding

Breeding strategy: egg-scatterer
Breeding difficulty: intermediate