Description

Blue Emperor Tetra – Inpaichthys kerri

Blue Emperor Tetra originate from Northern Brazil where they inhabit sluggish dark waters rich with tanins. Although often confused with the true Emperor Tetra (Nematobrycon palmeri), Inpaichthys kerri is a separate species that makes an excellent addition to peaceful community aquariums

Blue Emperor Tetra Aquarium Set Up

Blue Emperor Tetras originate from slow-moving tributaries of the Amazon Basin where overhanging vegetation, submerged roots and leaf litter create soft, slightly acidic water. Recreating these conditions will help them display their best colours and natural behaviour.

A densely planted aquarium with open swimming space is ideal. Bogwood, driftwood and floating plants help diffuse the lighting, while dark substrate provides excellent contrast against their iridescent blue bodies.

Although adaptable once established, they appreciate stable water conditions and should only be introduced to mature aquariums.

Behaviour

They are a highly social shoaling species that should be maintained in a group of 10 or more specimens. If the numbers are too low, these tetra tend to turn their attention to other fish in the aquarium and often turn to fin nipping.

Blue Emperor Tetra Tank Mates

Tank mates can include other small, peaceful species as long as they can tolerate the acidic conditions. We recommend housing them with other South American species, such as corydoras, other tetras, pencilfish, dwarf cichlids, plecos and angelfish (if the aquarium is large enough).

Feeding

Food should be offered in the form of micro pellets and fresh or frozen insect larvae such as bloodworm, daphnia, brine shrimp and mosquito larvae.

Shirley Aquatics Tip

Blue Emperor Tetras show their best colours in mature aquariums with subdued lighting and dark décor. If your fish appear washed out immediately after purchase, don’t worry—they usually develop much richer blue tones once they’ve settled into a calm, well-planted aquarium.

If you have any questions about keeping Blue Emperor Tetra – Inpaichthys kerri, please contact us and a member of our friendly store team will be more than happy to answer all of your questions

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