🔴 Cardinal Tetra Care Guide (Paracheirodon axelrodi)
🌟 Overview The Cardinal Tetra (Paracheirodon axelrodi) is a stunning schooling fish known for its vibrant red and iridescent blue stripe that runs the entire length of its body. Native to blackwater rivers in South America, Cardinal Tetras are peaceful community fish and make an excellent choice for heavily planted aquariums. Larger and more vividly colored than the Neon Tetra, they’re a favorite among aquarists who want a striking, active display.
🔑 Quick Facts
- Scientific Name: Paracheirodon axelrodi
- Common Name: Cardinal Tetra
- Origin: South America (Amazon & Orinoco River basins)
- Size: 1.5–2 inches (4–5 cm)
- Lifespan: 4–5 years (sometimes longer with excellent care)
- Temperament: Peaceful, schooling
- Care Level: Easy to Moderate
🏠 Tank Requirements
- Minimum Tank Size: 15–20 gallons (larger for bigger schools)
- Water Temperature: 74–82°F (23–28°C)
- pH: 5.5–7.0 (slightly acidic preferred)
- Hardness: 1–8 dGH
- Aquascape: Heavily planted tank with driftwood, subdued lighting, and open swimming space
- School Size: Keep in groups of 10 or more for best color and behavior
🍽️ Diet
Cardinal Tetras are omnivores and thrive on a varied diet:
- High-quality flakes and micro-pellets
- Frozen/live foods: bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, cyclops
- Occasional veggie-based foods for balance
- A rich diet keeps colors vibrant.
🧑🤝🧑 Tank Mates
- Perfect with other peaceful community fish: rasboras, corydoras, small gouramis, dwarf cichlids
- Shrimp and snails are safe tank mates
- Avoid large or aggressive fish that may see them as prey
🧠 Behavior & Tips
- Best kept in large schools — the more, the better their natural display
- Colors look brightest in blackwater setups with tannins and soft lighting
- Sensitive to poor water quality → stable, clean water is essential
- More delicate than Neon Tetras, but hardier in established aquariums
❓ FAQ
Q: What’s the difference between Neon and Cardinal Tetras?
A: Cardinals have a full-length red stripe, while Neons have only half. Cardinals also grow slightly larger.
Q: How many Cardinal Tetras should I keep?
A: At least 10, but larger schools of 20+ are best.
Q: Are Cardinal Tetras good for beginners?
A: They’re hardy once acclimated but prefer soft, acidic water, so they’re best for aquarists with some experience.
Q: How long do they live?
A: Typically 4–5 years, longer in well-kept aquariums.
