Cardinal Tetra

Cardinal Tetra

Available for local pickup and shipping

 

Common Names:

Cardinal Tetra
Red Neon Tetra
Paracheirodon axelrodi

 

Identification

Cardinal Tetras are one of the most vibrant and eye-catching freshwater schooling fish, known for their brilliant neon blue stripe paired with a vivid red band that runs the full length of their body. This full-length red coloration is what distinguishes them from Neon Tetras, making them a more striking and premium choice for planted aquariums.

 

Size:
Typically grows up to 1.5–2 inches (3–5 cm) in length.

 

Behavior & Role in a Reef Tank

Temperament:
Peaceful and social; thrives in groups.

Habitat:
Schooling fish that prefer to be kept in groups of 6 or more. They are most comfortable in planted tanks with shaded areas and subdued lighting.

 

Role:
Adds vibrant color and synchronized schooling movement, making them a centerpiece for community and aquascaped tanks.

 

Compatibility & Caution

Reef-Safe:
N/A (freshwater species)

 

Compatibility:
Excellent with other peaceful community fish such as rasboras, small gouramis, and dwarf cichlids.

 

Caution:
Sensitive to poor water quality—requires stable, well-maintained conditions. Avoid housing with large or aggressive fish.

 

Care Level

Difficulty:
Moderate—best suited for aquarists with stable, established tanks.

 

Water Conditions:
Stable parameters recommended:
Temperature: 73–81°F (23–27°C)
pH: 5.5–7.0
Soft, slightly acidic water preferred.

 

Diet:
Omnivorous—accepts flakes, micro pellets, and frozen foods such as brine shrimp and daphnia.

 

Tank Mates

Best kept with peaceful, small community fish.
Ideal companions include rasboras, tetras, Corydoras, and dwarf gouramis.

 

Fun Fact

Cardinal Tetras are famous for their tight schooling behavior—when kept in larger groups, they move in perfect unison, creating a stunning “living wave” effect in planted aquariums!