Black Emperor Tetra - Nematobrycon palmeri var. "Amphiloxus Black" : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide

Breeding

When maintaining a school of Black Emperor Tetras with an equal representation of males and females, the establishment of a few breeding pairs is a natural progression. To facilitate successful breeding, it is highly advisable to allocate a separate breeding tank for each pair, as male aggression during spawning necessitates individualized enclosures.

Prior to initiating the breeding process, it is prudent to segregate the male and female for a period of one to two days and condition them with live food, ensuring optimal health and readiness for spawning. The breeding tank's water temperature should be slightly elevated from the standard conditions, while the water's softness is crucial for fostering a conducive environment.

In the breeding tank, the inclusion of a spawning mop or densely populated floating plants is recommended, and keeping the lighting subdued proves beneficial. The absence of substrate or other decor in the breeding tank simplifies cleaning during the fry's development phase.

Spawning typically commences at dawn, with the female laying eggs individually over several hours, leading to a production of around fifty to one hundred eggs. Once spawning concludes, it is essential to promptly remove the adult fish, as they are prone to consuming the eggs.

To safeguard the well-being of the fry during their growth stages, the installation of a sponge filter in the tank is prudent, complemented by a weekly water change routine. Hatching occurs approximately between 24 to 48 hours after spawning, and the fry can be nourished with infusoria or other suitable small food sources, such as microworms and freshly hatched brine shrimp.

Diet & Feeding

In the confines of a home aquarium, Black Emperor Tetras readily accept a diverse array of high-quality dried foods, encompassing granules, flakes, and sinking pellets. These contemporary food formulations have been thoughtfully designed to provide comprehensive nutrition, effectively meeting the health and dietary requirements of the fish.

To further augment the overall health and well-being of the fish, supplementary food items such as live, frozen, and freeze-dried options, such as mini bloodworms, daphnia, and tubifex, may be offered once or twice a week. While not mandatory, these additional foodstuffs contribute to the fish's vitality and serve as a beneficial complement to their diet.

In their natural habitat, Black Emperor Tetras exhibit omnivorous feeding behaviour, which includes the consumption of certain vegetable matter. Recognizing this aspect, modern fish foods often incorporate suitable plant-based components; nevertheless, the supplementation of the fish's diet with blanched vegetables like spinach, broccoli, and zucchini can further enrich their nutritional intake.

Adhering to a balanced feeding regimen is crucial to prevent overfeeding. Any uneaten food should be promptly removed the following day to maintain water quality and avert potential health concerns associated with food decomposition.