Cardinal tetra
Paracheirodon axelrodi · Characidae
Also known as Red neon
Intermediate
Like a neon but with red running the full body length; prefers warmer, softer water.
In short: A cardinal tetra needs at least 75 L (20 US gal), water at 24–29 °C (75–84 °F) and pH 4.5–7. It is peaceful, best kept in groups of 8 or more, and rated intermediate to keep.
Updated
- Minimum tank
- 75 L (20 US gal)
- Temperature
- 24–29 °C (75–84 °F)
- pH
- 4.5–7
- Adult size
- 4.5 cm (1.8 in)
- Group size
- 8+
Care requirements
- Minimum tank volume
- 75 L (20 US gal)
- Temperature
- 24–29 °C (75–84 °F)
- pH
- 4.5–7
- Hardness
- 1–8 dGH
- Lifespan
- 4–8 years
- Diet
- Omnivore — small frozen foods, micro pellets, quality flake.
- Care level
- Intermediate
Origin & habitat
- Native region
- Rio Negro and Orinoco basins
- Water type
- Freshwater
- Biotope
- Blackwater tributaries under dense forest cover
- Natural conditions
- Very soft, acidic, tea-coloured water at 26–29 °C.
Behaviour & stocking
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Minimum group
- 8 fish
- Swims
- Mid-water
- Good tank mates
- DiscusCorydorasDwarf cichlidsOtocinclus
- Avoid
- Tiger barbLarge cichlids
Breeding & difficulty
- Breeding difficulty
- Advanced
- Sexing
- Females are deeper-bodied when in condition.
- Notes
- Rarely bred at home; requires near-zero hardness and darkness.
- Common ailments
- IchBacterial infections after shipping
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