Fishician®Diet
Omnivore – micro pellets, flake food, frozen baby brine shrimp, daphnia
Aquarium species profile
Cardinal Tetra
Paracheirodon axelrodi · South America (upper Orinoco and Negro rivers)
Minimum tank20 gal
Adult size2"
Care levelModerate
TemperamentPeaceful
Temperature73–81°F
pH range4.5–6.8
Compatible tank mates
Other small tetras, Corydoras, Rasboras, Discus, dwarf cichlids
Tank mates to avoid
Large/aggressive fish, Angelfish (may be eaten by adults)
Care notes
Schooling fish; keep in groups of 6+. Brighter blue-and-red than Neon Tetra; red extends full body length. Prefers soft, acidic blackwater conditions.
Check the whole aquarium. Tank size alone does not establish compatibility. Confirm adult size, water overlap, social grouping, territory, diet, and the individual animals before stocking.