Imported
Black Emperor Tetra
Nematobrycon palmeri
Native Location: Colombia
Climate: Tropical
Maximum Size: 5cm
Temperament: Peaceful
Diet: Omnivore
Breeding: Easy
Temperature Range: 23-27℃ (73-81℉)
Preferred pH Range: 5.0-7.5
Minimum Aquarium Size: 90cm x 30cm
Potential Tankmates: Danios, Rasboras, Corydoras and other small peaceful Tetras
Care Level: Easy
The Black Emperor Tetra is a captivating species native to the serene waters of the Atrato and San Juan River basins in Colombia, South America. This fish thrives in environments that emulate its natural habitat, which is characterised by slow-moving streams and backwaters. These areas typically feature soft, acidic water enriched with tannins from the many different leaves, wood and seed pods fallen from the trees lining the sides of the water.
To create a suitable aquarium for the Black Emperor Tetra, begin with dark sand or fine gravel to highlight their vibrant colours and support plant growth. Ensure the water flow is gentle, replicating the serene streams of their South American origins, and use subdued lighting, potentially softened by floating plants, to mimic their natural, shaded environment. Incorporate driftwood and leaf litter to enhance aesthetics, provide hiding spots, and replicate the tannin-rich waters they prefer, which also fosters microorganisms beneficial for fry. Add low-light tolerant plants like Java Fern and Anubias to complete the setup, crafting a peaceful and naturalistic habitat that emphasises the Black Emperor Tetra's stunning appearance and supports their health and behaviour.
The Black Emperor Tetra is a natural omnivore in its natural habitat, living on a diet that includes small worms, crustaceans, and some vegetable matter. This diverse diet highlights their adaptability and micro-predatory nature as they forage amongst their environment's detritus and vegetation, sourcing food from the water column and the substrate. In the aquarium setting, to mimic their natural dietary habits and ensure their vibrant colouration and health are maintained, it is recommended to provide a varied diet. High-quality flake foods or pellets serve as a good base diet, supplemented regularly with meaty foods such as freeze-dried bloodworms, daphnia, and brine shrimp. Additionally, incorporating vegetables like algae wafers or tablets provides the balance needed for a healthy diet. This balanced feeding approach caters to their nutritional requirements and encourages natural foraging behaviour, making the Black Emperor Tetra a thriving and colourful addition to any aquarium.
Breeding in a home aquarium is an engaging process that mimics their natural reproductive behaviours. These tetras are known to breed in pairs and exhibit a fascinating spawning ritual, typically at dawn. To encourage breeding, it is advised to maintain a group of at least 6 to 10 fish to ensure a comfortable social structure, allowing males to display and compete for female attention. A separate breeding tank should be set up with subdued lighting and dense plantings to replicate their natural environment and provide spaces for egg scattering. The female lays her eggs individually over several hours, potentially laying between 50-100 eggs per spawning session. For successful hatching, it is recommended that the adults be removed post-spawning to prevent them from consuming the eggs.
Dead on Arrival (DOA) Policy: In the unfortunate event that your fish arrives dead, please follow these steps: Within 12 hours of the delivery, take clear, unopened bag pictures showing the deceased fish. Send these photographs and your order number to our customer service email at getfish@thefishroom.co.nz or to our Facebook page, and we will then offer a refund or store credit for the cost of the fish.
Two-Week Guarantee Policy: We stand behind the health and quality of our fish, which is why we offer a two-week guarantee starting from the day of delivery. If your fish dies within this time frame, adhere to the following procedure: Take clear photos of the deceased fish. Using a reliable test kit, document water parameters (pH, ammonia, nitrate, nitrite levels) via a dated image. Please email us the photographs, water parameters, and order number to getfish@thefishroom.co.nz or our Facebook page. After reviewing your claim, if approved, we will issue a store credit for the cost of the fish. Our two-week guarantee does not cover fish deaths due to unsuitable water conditions, incompatible tank mates or "disasters", i.e. a heater overheating. To prevent such situations, we recommend thoroughly researching each fish species' needs before introducing them to your aquarium.
Freight Charges: Please note that shipping or freight charges are non-refundable under all circumstances. We hope this guide makes our refund and guarantee process more understandable. If you have any questions or need further clarification, please contact us at getfish@thefishroom.co.nz. We are always happy to assist. Thank you for choosing The Fish Room. Happy fishkeeping!
All our fish are quarantined on arrival for two weeks. During this time, we treat any health issues that may occur during transport and ensure each fish is eating well and looking healthy. All fish are treated with Flubendazole before finally going on sale.
