Emperor Tetra
Nematobrycon palmeri
Emperor Tetra is a peaceful bottom-to-middle swimmer.
Save this fish or add it directly to one of your aquariums.
Quick facts
- Adult size
- ≤ 4.5 cm (≤ 1.8 in)
- Aquarium size
- 81 L or larger / ≥ 90 cm (≥ 35.4 in) minimum length
- Care level
- Beginner
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Swimming zone
- Bottom to middle swimmer
- Temperature
- 22–26 °C
- pH
- 5–7.5
- GH
- 3–9 dGH
- KH
- 4–8 dKH
- Diet
- Omnivore
- Lifespan
- up to 5 years
Care requirements
Care level: Beginner.
Lifespan: up to 5 years.
Aquarium size and space needs
Minimum aquarium size: 81 L or larger / ≥ 90 cm (≥ 35.4 in) minimum length. Plan the layout and stocking within that limit.
Water parameters
Suitable water: temperature 22–26 °C, pH 5–7.5, GH 3–9 dGH, KH 4–8 dKH.
Temperament and compatibility
Emperor Tetra is peaceful and suits calm community fish.
Swimming zone and behavior
This fish uses the lower to middle part of the aquarium, so leave enough open substrate area for movement and feeding.
Feeding
As an omnivore, Emperor Tetra should receive a varied diet rather than one repeated food type.
Make sure food reaches the substrate before faster fish take it.
Natural habitat and origin
Origin: Colombia, Brazil.
Before adding this fish
- Plan for an aquarium of 81 L or larger / ≥ 90 cm (≥ 35.4 in) minimum length.
- Avoid aggressive or highly competitive fish.
- Offer a varied diet suitable for an omnivorous bottom-dwelling fish.
Similar fish profiles
Use these profiles to compare fish with similar care level, size, temperature range, or swimming behavior.
FAQ
How large does Emperor Tetra get?
Emperor Tetra reaches ≤ 4.5 cm (≤ 1.8 in).
What aquarium size does Emperor Tetra need?
Use an aquarium of at least 81 L or larger / ≥ 90 cm (≥ 35.4 in) minimum length.
Is Emperor Tetra peaceful?
Yes. Emperor Tetra is recorded as peaceful and is best planned with calm community fish that do not harass it or dominate the feeding area.
What temperature is suitable for Emperor Tetra?
Keep it between 22 to 26 °C.