Rainbow Emperor Tetra (Nematobrycon lacortei) Care Guide
Nematobrycon lacortei is a small Colombian characid with rainbow iridescence and red eyes, closely related to the emperor tetra.
Overview
Nematobrycon lacortei, the rainbow emperor tetra, is a small characid from Colombia, closely related to the emperor tetra (Nematobrycon palmeri). It shows iridescent body coloration and red eyes. It is a peaceful schooling fish best kept in groups.
Taxonomy
- Family: Characidae
- Genus: Nematobrycon
- Scientific name: Nematobrycon lacortei
Habitat
FishBase records the species from the San Juan River basin in Colombia, South America. It is a freshwater fish of tropical streams.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 80 L
- Temperature: 23-27 °C (73-81 °F)
- pH: 5.5-7.5
- GH: 2-12 °dGH
- School size: 6 or more individuals
- Lifespan: 4-6 years
Diet
Nematobrycon lacortei is an omnivore. In aquaria it accepts prepared foods supplemented with small live and frozen items, fed about twice daily.
Compatibility
This is a peaceful mid-water schooling species. It mixes well with other small, calm community fish such as Corydoras and Apistogramma, and should be kept away from aggressive tankmates.
Breeding
It is an egg-scattering species with intermediate breeding difficulty, as recorded for the genus.
Conservation status
The IUCN Red List assesses Nematobrycon lacortei as Data Deficient (assessed 9 October 2014).