Blue emperor tetra

The blue emperor tetra (Inpaichthys kerri) is a small freshwater characin of the family Characidae, native to the Aripuanã River basin in the Amazon region of Brazil. It has a violet-blue iridescent sheen along the body with a dark horizontal stripe, and males show a small adipose fin colored blue. It is often confused with the emperor tetra but is a distinct species. It is a peaceful shoaling fish that should be kept in groups of at least six to eight. It mixes well with other small, calm community fish. A planted aquarium with soft, slightly acidic water, driftwood, and subdued lighting brings out its blue shimmer. It is an omnivore that readily accepts flakes, micro-pellets, and small live or frozen foods. Hardy and adaptable, it suits beginners with a stable aquarium. It is an egg-scatterer that can be bred in soft, dim conditions among fine-leaved plants.