Emperor Tetra

The Emperor Tetra is a regal and peaceful fish named for its distinctive crown-like pattern on the male dorsal fin. Native to Colombia, these elegant fish display a beautiful iridescent sheen that shifts between green, blue, and purple depending on the light. Males develop long, flowing fins and the characteristic crown, while females remain more subdued but equally charming.

Care Requirements

Tank Setup

Emperor Tetras appreciate a well-planted tank with open swimming areas. They are active swimmers that need space to display their fins and schooling behavior.

Essential Setup:

• Heater maintaining 75-79°F
• Gentle to moderate filtration
• Dark substrate to enhance iridescent colors
• Moderate lighting
• Dense plant cover on sides and back
• Open swimming space in center
• Gentle water flow

Water Quality

• Temperature: 73-80°F (23-27°C)
• pH: 6.0-7.5 (adaptable range)
• Water Hardness: Soft to moderate (2-15 dGH)
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: <20 ppm

Emperor Tetras are adaptable to a range of water conditions but show best coloration in slightly soft, acidic water. Regular 25% weekly water changes maintain water quality.

Feeding

Emperor Tetras are omnivores:

• High-quality flakes or micro pellets
• Frozen foods: brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms
• Live foods: small insects, worms, brine shrimp
• Vegetable matter: spirulina flakes

Feeding Schedule: Small amounts 2-3 times daily.

Behavior & Compatibility

Emperors are peaceful and suitable for community tanks with:

• Other peaceful tetras
• Rasboras
• Corydoras Catfish
• Dwarf Gouramis
• Small livebearers
• Peaceful dwarf cichlids

Avoid:

• Large predatory fish
• Fin-nippers (Tiger Barbs)
• Aggressive cichlids

Sexual Dimorphism

Males:

• Longer, flowing fins
• Distinctive “crown” on dorsal fin (dark spot with iridescent edges)
• More intense iridescent coloration
• Longer, more pointed fins overall

Females:

• Shorter, rounded fins
• Fuller body (especially when gravid)
• Less pronounced crown
• Slightly duller coloration

Schooling Behavior

Keep in groups of 6 minimum, preferably 8-10. Males will display to each other and females, showing off their fins and colors without aggression.

Breeding

Emperor Tetras are egg scatterers:

• Use breeding tank with Java Moss or spawning mop
• Soft, acidic water preferred
• Condition with live foods
• Remove adults after spawning
• Eggs hatch in 24-36 hours

Tips for Success

• Keep in groups with multiple males for display behavior
• Provide open swimming space
• Dark substrate enhances iridescence
• Regular water changes maintain color vibrancy