What is an Emperor tetra?

The emperor tetra is a fish of the Characidae family that's native to South America. The species is black, purple and silver in color with translucent fins that reach about 1.5 inches in length.

The beautiful color and peaceful temperament of the fish make it a popular addition to aquariums. Dense vegetation with plenty of hiding places and dimmed lighting are essential to mimic its natural habitat in Colombian rivers. It may be housed with other non-aggressive fish in aquariums of at least 10 gallons. In captivity, the emperor tetra's diet consists of brine shrimp, daphnia, freeze-dried bloodworms, micro-pellet food, mosquito larvae and high-quality flake foods.