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New emperor tetras: Drip acclimation necessary?
Posted: Fri Apr 25, 2025 2:37 pm
by Timbera
Just picked up some Emperor Tetras from my LFS. The guy there said drip acclimation isn't a big deal for them, but I've heard mixed things. What's your take? My tank's at 78°F, pH 7.2, and they're going into a planted 20-gallon with some Corydoras.
Re: New emperor tetras: Drip acclimation necessary?
Posted: Fri Apr 25, 2025 2:50 pm
by brighton
I've kept Emperor Tetras for years, and I always drip acclimate. They're pretty hardy, but why risk it? Takes like 30 minutes tops. My tank's similar to yours, 75°F, pH 7.0, and they've been thriving.
Re: New emperor tetras: Drip acclimation necessary?
Posted: Fri Apr 25, 2025 3:13 pm
by lakekeeper
Drip acclimation is a good practice, especially if the water parameters differ a lot. It's not just about temperature, but also pH and hardness. Better safe than sorry, right? My Emperor Tetras are in a 30-gallon with driftwood and Java Fern.
Re: New emperor tetras: Drip acclimation necessary?
Posted: Fri Apr 25, 2025 3:52 pm
by sealine
brighton wrote: ↑Fri Apr 25, 2025 2:50 pm
I've kept Emperor Tetras for years, and I always drip acclimate. They're pretty hardy, but why risk it? Takes like 30 minutes tops. My tank's similar to yours, 75°F, pH 7.0, and they've been thriving.
Agreed. I've seen fish go into shock from quick acclimation. Not worth the gamble. My tank's at 77°F, pH 7.1, and I use a slow drip over an hour.
Re: New emperor tetras: Drip acclimation necessary?
Posted: Fri Apr 25, 2025 4:38 pm
by kicks
Nah, man, I've never dripped mine. Just float the bag for temp, then plop 'em in. Never had issues. My tank's at 76°F, pH 7.3, and they're chillin' with some Neon Tetras.
Re: New emperor tetras: Drip acclimation necessary?
Posted: Fri Apr 25, 2025 5:09 pm
by water_s
I'm new to Emperor Tetras, but I'd err on the side of caution. My LFS recommended drip acclimation, so that's what I did. Tank's at 78°F, pH 7.2, and they're doing great with my Harlequin Rasboras.
Re: New emperor tetras: Drip acclimation necessary?
Posted: Fri Apr 25, 2025 5:21 pm
by swiftfinch7
kicks wrote: ↑Fri Apr 25, 2025 4:38 pm
Nah, man, I've never dripped mine. Just float the bag for temp, then plop 'em in. Never had issues. My tank's at 76°F, pH 7.3, and they're chillin' with some Neon Tetras.
That's sketchy, dude. Even if they survive, it's stressful. I drip mine for at least 45 minutes. Tank's at 77°F, pH 7.1, and they're thriving.
Re: New emperor tetras: Drip acclimation necessary?
Posted: Fri Apr 25, 2025 6:46 pm
by candora
I've never had Emperor Tetras, but I'd follow the advice of those who have. Better to be safe than sorry. My tank's at 75°F, pH 7.0, and I'd probably drip acclimate if I got some.
Re: New emperor tetras: Drip acclimation necessary?
Posted: Fri Apr 25, 2025 8:08 pm
by aquanix
Drip acclimation is the way to go. It's not just about survival, it's about reducing stress. My Emperor Tetras are in a 25-gallon at 78°F, pH 7.2, and I drip for an hour. They're super active and healthy.
Re: New emperor tetras: Drip acclimation necessary?
Posted: Fri Apr 25, 2025 8:35 pm
by florinka
Timbera wrote: ↑Fri Apr 25, 2025 2:37 pm
Just picked up some Emperor Tetras from my LFS. The guy there said drip acclimation isn't a big deal for them, but I've heard mixed things. What's your take? My tank's at 78°F, pH 7.2, and they're going into a planted 20-gallon with some Corydoras.
I'd say drip acclimate. It's a small effort for a big payoff. My tank's at 77°F, pH 7.1, and my Emperor Tetras are doing great with some Cardinal Tetras.