Royal Tetra – 3cm

Royal Tetra, an active peaceful shoaling fish that should be kept in groups of 6 or more.  Adult size 3 -6 cm, minimum tank size 100 litres.

The Royal Tetra (Inpaichthys kerri) is also known as Blue Emperor Tetra, Royal Tetra, Kerri Tetra, Purple Emperor Tetra and originate from South America: Aripuanã River, upper Madeira River basin, and Mato Grosso, Brazil.  Males have more elongated fins and are more vibrant in colour. Males will also have blue adipose fins while females will have red/oranges ones.

Behaviour

It is not particularly fearful and quite active, even quarrelsome and turbulent! Like all species of the genus, it is gregarious and must be kept in groups. It suffers from an unjustified reputation as a fin-cracker because if it is maintained in sufficient numbers, this behaviour should not appear. Males compete in colourful parades.

Tank Conditions

A very planted aquarium is ideal as it offers hiding places and will increase their sense of security.

In the wild, they live in strong currents. A good power filter is recommended for a high flow and strong oxygenation. Filtration with peat is a plus. Or an aquarium with an Amazonian biotype. For this, use a river sand substrate that you can sprinkle with dried leaves (beech or oak). These leaves will tint the water (slightly “tea-coloured”). Renew these leaves before they rot. Add some driftwood roots or twisted branches which will be of the most beautiful effect. Finally, plant abundantly and dim the lights.

These soft water conditioner products will help maintain the proper water condition

Although it will survive in simpler, less organized aquariums, its colours will often fade and it will tend to be shy.

Compatibility

Keep these fish in groups of 6 or more. Does well in peaceful community tanks but do not keep with large predatory or aggressive fish.

Feeding

They will accept most foods including pellet and flake as well as live/frozen food such as bloodworm and brine shrimp.

Feed once or twice a day.

Care

They prefer soft water typical of the amazon basin, these soft water conditioner products will help maintain that.

See Fish Disease Diagnosis and Treatment at Rebel Pets for help with diagnosing and treating diseases.