BLACK EMPEROR TETRA (Nematobrycon palmeri)
$6.20
Full Description
Here’s a complete care guide for the Black Emperor Tetra (Nematobrycon palmeri), a beautiful and peaceful freshwater fish ideal for community aquariums. This is a black-bodied variant of the standard Emperor Tetra, known for its elegant appearance, shimmering coloration, and ease of care.
Black Emperor Tetra Care Guide
Scientific Name: Nematobrycon palmeri
Common Name: Black Emperor Tetra
Other Variants: Blue Emperor, Purple Emperor
Family: Characidae
Origin: Colombia (slow-moving tributaries of the Atrato and San Juan Rivers)
Size: 1.5–2 inches (4–5 cm)
Lifespan: 4–6 years
Temperament: Peaceful
Schooling Fish: Yes (best in groups of 6+)
Tank Level: Middle and upper levels
️ Tank Requirements
| Requirement | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Tank Size | 15 gallons minimum (20+ gallons preferred) |
| School Size | 6+ (more = less aggression & better color) |
| Aquascape | Planted tank with driftwood and open swim space |
| Substrate | Dark sand or gravel enhances coloration |
| Lighting | Moderate or subdued (to mimic natural habitat) |
| Lid | Recommended—they can jump |
These tetras do best in heavily planted or blackwater-style tanks with hiding spots and soft lighting.
Water Parameters
| Parameter | Ideal Range |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 73–80°F (23–27°C) |
| pH | 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic ideal) |
| Hardness | 3–12 dGH |
| Ammonia/Nitrite | 0 ppm |
| Nitrate | < 20 ppm |
✅ They prefer soft, slightly acidic water but are adaptable with slow acclimation.
️ Diet & Feeding
Black Emperor Tetras are omnivores and not picky eaters. A varied diet helps maintain coloration and energy.
Offer:
-
High-quality micro pellets or flakes
-
Frozen or live brine shrimp, daphnia, or bloodworms
-
Spirulina-based flakes for plant content
-
Occasional blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach)
Feeding frequency: 1–2 times daily in small amounts
Temperament & Tankmates
| Trait | Notes |
|---|---|
| Temperament | Peaceful, slightly territorial when breeding |
| Good Tankmates | Neon tetras, rasboras, corydoras, small gouramis |
| Avoid | Fin-nippers (e.g. tiger barbs), large/aggressive fish |
| Behavior | Males may spar lightly, especially in smaller groups |
Keep in even numbers to reduce chasing. Males have longer dorsal and anal fins.
⚡ Sexing & Breeding
| Gender | Traits |
|---|---|
| Male | Longer fins, brighter body stripe, more vivid color |
| Female | Rounder belly, shorter fins, less intense color |
Breeding Notes:
-
Can be bred in captivity
-
Use a separate breeding tank with moss or fine-leaf plants
-
Eggs are scattered and adults may eat them
-
Remove adults after spawning
-
Eggs hatch in 24–36 hours, fry become free-swimming in ~5 days
✅ Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Hardy and easy to care for | Needs to be in groups (6+) |
| Very attractive with dark contrast | Can be timid without cover or plants |
| Great for peaceful community tanks | Males may chase each other when overcrowded |
| Suitable for planted/natural tanks | May not show full color in bright light |
**Final Verdict
The Black Emperor Tetra is a peaceful, hardy, and visually stunning fish perfect for a planted or community aquarium. It’s ideal for beginners and intermediate aquarists alike—especially those who appreciate subtle beauty, calm behavior, and naturalistic aquascapes.
10 in stock