Blue King Tetra
Blue King Tetra
Blue King Tetra (Boehlkea fredcochui) is a vivid cobalt-blue tetra also called Cochu's Blue Tetra — named for Fred Cochu, a New York collector who brought early specimens to the hobby. The genus is named for ichthyologist James Böhlke. An active, fast-swimming schooling tetra with a vivid blue stripe.
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 Amazon basin in Peru and Colombia — the Napo and Putumayo drainages. Soft to moderately soft water preferred.
Keep in groups of at least 8. Fast-swimming and active. The vivid blue stripe is most intense in good lighting.
A vivid blue tetra with a rich naming history — Böhlke and Cochu both honoured.
Care & Ideal Parameters
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Temperament | Peaceful — schooling community |
| Typical Adult Size | 2.0 inches (5 cm) |
| Min. Group Size | 8 minimum |
| Ideal Temp | 73–82°F (23–28°C) |
| Ideal pH | 6.0–7.5 |
| Ideal GH | 3–12 dGH |
| Ideal KH | 1–6 dKH |
| Staple Food | Sera Vipan Tropical Flakes; Hikari Micro Pellets |
| Treat / Supplement | Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms; Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Baby Brine Shrimp; Hikari Vibra Bites |
| Origin | Napo and Putumayo drainages, Peru and Colombia |
| Notes | Named for Fred Cochu (collector) and James Böhlke (ichthyologist). Vivid cobalt-blue stripe. Also called Cochu's Blue Tetra. |
