Blue Emperor Tetra (Inpaichthys kerri)- Live Fish

Blue Emperor Tetra (Inpaichthys kerri)

Elegant schooling fish with royal blue and violet hues

The Blue Emperor Tetra is a peaceful, medium-sized tetra admired for its shimmering blue-violet body and graceful movement. Native to slow-moving tributaries in Brazil, this species adds sophistication and subtle color to any community tank. When kept in a group, they display mesmerizing schooling behavior and a calm, regal presence.

🔍 Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Inpaichthys kerri

• Common Names: Blue Emperor Tetra, Emperor Tetra “Blue”

• Origin: Brazil (upper Aripuanã River basin)

• Size: 1.5–2" (4–5 cm)

• Temperament: Peaceful, social

• Lifespan: 3–5 years

• Care Level: Easy to Moderate

🏡 Ideal Aquarium Setup

• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons

• Temperature: 73–81°F (23–27°C)

• pH Range: 6.0–7.5

• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

• Tank Setup Tips:

  • Keep in groups of 6 or more for best color and behavior

  • Gentle water flow with live plants and open swimming space

  • Darker substrate and subdued lighting will intensify their colors

🍽️ Diet

Omnivorous and easy to feed:

• Quality flake or micro-pellets

• Frozen or live treats: daphnia, bloodworms, brine shrimp

• Occasional vegetable-based foods for variety

🐣 Breeding

• Egg scatterers; will spawn among fine-leaved plants or spawning mops

• Remove adults after spawning to protect eggs

• Fry require tiny foods such as infusoria, then baby brine shrimp

🌟 Fun Facts

• Males have elongated dorsal and tail fins, adding to their elegance

• Peaceful nature makes them perfect for planted community aquariums

• Colors become most intense when kept in larger shoals with stable water conditions

💧 The Blue Emperor Tetra’s regal glow and calm temperament make it a crown jewel in any freshwater community tank!