Black Emperor Tetra – Nematobrycon palmeri
The Black Emperor Tetra (Nematobrycon palmeri) is an elegant freshwater schooling fish known for its deep dark coloration, graceful body shape, and flowing fins. This dramatic tetra adds contrast, movement, and a refined look to planted aquariums, aquascapes, and peaceful community tanks.
Black Emperor Tetras are especially attractive in aquariums with live plants, driftwood, darker substrate, and open swimming space. Their bold appearance and calm schooling behavior make them a great choice for hobbyists who want a more unique and eye-catching tetra.
Key Features
- Dark, elegant freshwater tetra
- Flowing fins, especially on mature males
- Peaceful schooling fish for community aquariums
- Great for planted tanks and aquascapes
- Bold contrast against green plants and natural decor
- Best kept in groups of 6 or more
Care Guide
- Scientific Name: Nematobrycon palmeri
- Common Name: Black Emperor Tetra
- Care Level: Easy to moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful; males may display toward each other
- Adult Size: Approximately 1.5–2 inches
- Size at Sale: Approximately 1 inch
- Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons or larger recommended
- Tank Level: Midwater
- Water Temperature: 72–80°F
- pH Range: 6.0–7.5
- Diet: Omnivore
Why Choose Black Emperor Tetras?
Black Emperor Tetras are a beautiful choice for aquarists who want a peaceful schooling fish with a darker, more dramatic appearance. Their deep coloration and elegant fins make them stand out in planted aquariums without overpowering the natural look of the tank.
A group of Black Emperor Tetras adds calm activity and visual interest to the midwater area of the aquarium. Males may display to each other, especially as they mature, but they are generally peaceful when kept in a proper group with enough space.
Ideal Tank Setup
Black Emperor Tetras do best in a stable, fully cycled aquarium with live plants, open swimming areas, and shaded cover. Driftwood, darker substrate, floating plants, and natural decor help them feel secure while enhancing their dark coloration.
Keep them in groups of at least 6 or more for best confidence, color, and social behavior. A 20 gallon or larger aquarium is recommended to provide enough swimming space and reduce stress.
Compatible Tankmates
- Other peaceful tetras
- Rasboras
- Corydoras catfish
- Otocinclus
- Small peaceful gouramis
- Peaceful dwarf cichlids with caution
- Peaceful livebearers
- Shrimp with proper cover
- Snails
Tankmates to Avoid
- Large predatory fish
- Aggressive cichlids
- Fin-nipping species
- Very tiny nano fish that may be intimidated
- Overly boisterous fish that may outcompete them for food
Diet & Feeding
Black Emperor Tetras are omnivores and accept a variety of aquarium foods. Feed high-quality flakes, micro pellets, small granules, frozen brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, and other appropriately sized foods.
A varied diet helps support healthy color, fin condition, activity, and overall health. Feed small portions that the group can consume quickly.
Care Tips
- Keep in groups of 6 or more
- Provide live plants, shaded areas, and open swimming space
- Use peaceful community tankmates
- Maintain clean, stable aquarium water
- Use darker substrate or backgrounds to enhance contrast
- Feed a varied diet of flakes, pellets, and frozen foods
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Black Emperor Tetras peaceful?
Yes. Black Emperor Tetras are generally peaceful community fish, although mature males may display toward each other. Keeping them in a group with enough space helps reduce stress.
How many Black Emperor Tetras should I keep together?
Keep them in groups of at least 6 or more for best behavior, confidence, and natural social interaction.
Are Black Emperor Tetras good for planted tanks?
Yes. They are excellent for planted aquariums and look especially striking against green plants, driftwood, and darker backgrounds.
How big do Black Emperor Tetras get?
They typically reach approximately 1.5–2 inches as adults.
What do Black Emperor Tetras eat?
They eat quality flakes, micro pellets, small granules, frozen foods, and small live foods. A varied diet is best for health and color.
Can Black Emperor Tetras live with dwarf cichlids?
Yes, they can work with peaceful dwarf cichlids in a properly sized aquarium with plants, cover, and stable water conditions.
Are these fish available for shipping?
No. Live fish are available for in-store purchase or local pickup only at Tropical Treasures Wyo in Cheyenne, Wyoming.
Available at Tropical Treasures Wyo
Black Emperor Tetras are elegant peaceful schooling fish for planted aquariums, aquascapes, and freshwater community tanks. Visit Tropical Treasures Wyo in Cheyenne, Wyoming, to shop tetras, schooling fish, freshwater fish, shrimp, snails, live aquarium plants, fish food, filtration supplies, and aquarium care products. Live livestock is available for in-store purchase or local pickup only.
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