Description

Cardinal Tetra (Paracheirodon axelrodi)

Bring vibrant schooling colour to your community aquarium with the iconic Cardinal Tetra. Ideal for peaceful freshwater set-ups, this small characin is prized for its neon blue stripe and full crimson flank. Typical adult size: 3–5 cm; expected lifespan: 4–5 years with good care.

• Min tank size: 20 Litres
• Diet: Omnivore
• PH: 6.5 – 7.0
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Origin: Orinoco and Amazon basin of South America
• Approximate purchase size: 1.5 – 2cm

Care Information

Best kept in groups of 8+ to reduce stress and show natural schooling behaviour. Gentle, stable water chemistry is key: soft, slightly acidic water replicates their Amazon origins. Avoid sudden changes and provide plenty of cover.

Tank Set Up and Conditions

• Temperature: 24–28°C
• pH: 5.0–7.0 (aim ~6.0–6.8)
• Hardness: 1–8 dGH
• Aquascape: Dark substrate, leaf litter, driftwood and plants (e.g., Amazon swords, floating cover) help colours pop.
• Filtration/Flow: Mature, low-to-moderate flow filtration; ensure excellent water quality.
• Lighting: Low to moderate suits their natural habitat and reduces skittishness.

Feeding Requirements

Cardinal Tetras are micro-predators. Offer a varied diet of quality micro-pellets, fine flakes, and frozen/live foods (daphnia, cyclops, baby brine shrimp). Small, frequent feeds promote condition and colour.

Compatibility and Behaviour

Peaceful community fish; ideal with other small, non-nippy species such as rasboras, dwarf Corydoras, small peaceful gouramis and shrimp (adult). Avoid large or boisterous tankmates