Golden Blue/Purple Emperor Tetra (Inpaichthys kerri) – Tank-Bred!

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The Golden Blue Emperor is a fairly new color morph that develops bright blue coloration along with its “gold” as it matures!

The GoldenBlue/Purple Emperor Tetra (Inpaichthys kerri) is a very attractive variant of its nominal form and is a shoaling fish for the community aquarium. Its coloration consists of an overall gold body coloration, but it also develops striking blue coloration as it matures. Adult specimens display a very noticeable blue/purple sheen especially when displaying breeding behavior. Females are generally smaller and thicker in size. The GoldenBlue/PurpleEmperor Tetra typically breeds in pairs and must be kept in shoals of at least 6 to 10 fish. Males will posture and compete for females, but this aggression is not a problem in aquariums with ample space and plenty of dcor. Smaller shoals of this fish may result in fin-nipping of other species in the tank.

The GoldenBlue/PurpleEmperor Tetra typically occupies the top and middle level of the water column, although it can often be seen swimming and feeding in the middle and bottom levels as well. It is safe to keep with other peaceful, small fish. Though it has a relatively robust, larger body than many smaller tetras, it has a very small mouth. Adult dwarf shrimp are possibly safe tankmates as well, but adult GoldenBlue/PurpleEmperor Tetras may eat small dwarf shrimp and their fry. Larger, peaceful invertebrates can also make good tankmates. Sinceit is tank-raised, theBlue/PurpleEmperor Tetrais fairly adaptable, but its natural habitat contains soft, acidic water rich in tannins and leaf litter. It does not fare well in water with a pH above 7.0.

While not a picky eater, the GoldenEmperor Tetra will thrive and remain very colorful on a varied diet of meaty foods. High-quality flake food, pellets, and frozen or freeze-dried tubifex and bloodworms will all be readily accepted.

What We Like About This Fish:

• Elegant coloration, especially in males
• Peaceful disposition with fish and peaceful invertebrates
• Very active and noticeable fish in any aquarium
• Hardy and adaptable
• Fascinating shoaling behavior.

RECOMMENDED TANK PARAMETERS:

• Temperature: 76 – 80 F (24 – 27 C)
  
• pH: 5.5 – 7.0 (acidic water is preferred)
  
• KH: 4 – 8 dKH
• Minimum tank size: 20 gallons for a school

CARE GUIDELINES:

• Diet: Omnivorous. Will easily accept high quality dry and frozen foods
  
• Social behavior: Peaceful, schooling/shoaling.
  
• Origin: Tank-bred, but indigenous to South America
  
• Average adult size: 1.4 inches (3.5 cm)
  
• Average purchase size: .75 – 1 inch (1.9 – 2.5 cm)
  

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