Rainbow Emperor Tetra

Rainbow Emperor Tetra (Nematobrycon lacortei) is a distinct species from the standard Emperor Tetra — where the Emperor's eyes glow turquoise blue, the Rainbow Emperor's eyes are vivid ruby-red, an extraordinary eye color for a freshwater fish. The body displays a warm reddish to reddish-brown iridescence, and males develop the same trident tail extension of the genus.

Feeding & Care Tip: Sera Vipan Tropical Flakes and Hikari Micro Pellets make excellent daily staples. Supplement 2–3× per week with Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms, Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Baby Brine Shrimp, or Hikari Vibra Bites. Feed small amounts 2–3 times daily.

Native to the Atrato River drainage in Colombia — named for La Corte, the collecting locality. The red eye is caused by red retinal pigmentation visible through the transparent eye tissue, vivid enough to be immediately visible across the aquarium.

Keep in mixed-sex groups of at least 6. Can be mixed with standard Emperor Tetras in a community setting, though the two species may hybridize if kept together.

A striking and underappreciated alternative to the standard Emperor. The ruby-red eyes against a warm reddish body create a very different aesthetic.

Care & Ideal Parameters