Cardinal Tetra (Paracheirodon axelrodi)
Description
The Cardinal Tetra is one of the most iconic freshwater fish, celebrated for its vibrant coloration and peaceful nature. With its striking neon blue stripe running along the length of its body and a vivid red underside, the Cardinal Tetra is a stunning addition to any aquarium. Native to the blackwater streams of South America, these schooling fish thrive in well-planted tanks and bring a harmonious, lively energy to community setups.
Key Features
- Scientific Name: Paracheirodon axelrodi
- Common Name: Cardinal Tetra
- Size: Up to 2 inches (5 cm)
- Temperament: Peaceful, schooling fish
- Lifespan: 4-5 years with proper care
- Diet: Omnivorous – enjoys high-quality flakes, micro pellets, and live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms.
- Tank Level: Mid-level swimmers
Tank Requirements
- Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons for a small school (recommended group of 6 or more)
- Water Temperature: 73°F to 81°F (23°C to 27°C)
- pH Range: 5.0 to 7.0
- Water Hardness: 1-4 dGH (soft water preferred)
- Substrate: Dark substrate enhances their vibrant colors.
- Tank Setup: Heavily planted tank with driftwood, leaf litter, and gentle water flow to mimic their natural blackwater habitat.
Care Tips
- Always keep Cardinal Tetras in schools of at least 6-8 individuals to reduce stress and encourage natural behavior.
- Perform regular water changes to maintain pristine water quality.
- Use a dimly lit or shaded tank with floating plants to replicate their natural environment.
Compatibility
Cardinal Tetras are excellent community fish and pair well with other peaceful species, such as:
- Corydoras Catfish
- Dwarf Gouramis
- Neon Tetras
- Shrimp species (like Amano or Cherry Shrimp)
Why Choose Cardinal Tetras?
The Cardinal Tetra’s dazzling colors and tranquil demeanor make it a favorite among aquarists. Whether you’re creating a biotope or a mixed community tank, these fish add movement, color, and a sense of serenity to your aquarium.
Size is about 0.5" - 0.75".
**Sold in a bundle option of 5 Fish, 10 Fish or 25 Fish**
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Heck of some colors and bright
bright
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Adorable
This bunch are just so vibrant and cute they have formed a massive school with the white cloud minnows I got at the same time. Only one cardinal died but the rest are doing very well. They feel safe and are in a planted tank along with two albino bristlenose plecos and a male betta. Everyone seems chill.
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Bright
big school. so energetic in my 125g
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Cardinal Tetras
They arrived alive and healthy,their doing great.
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Excellent service!
The fish are all alive, healthy and active. They arrived as promised and I am Very Happy with Pet Zone!!
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Cardinal Tetra
Have never ordered live fish before so this was a pleasant thing to know was offered. Ordered bundle of five Cardinal Tetras and all arrived perfectly. Got them acclimated and they are doing wonderful two days later. Couldn’t of been happier. What a nice and pleasant way to get into this hobby. Great ordering and delivery all the way around!
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The best ever shipment of live fish. All xlnt condition
I will definitely be making many more purchases at Pet Zone. for fish
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Cardinal Tetra
All fish were alive and healthy. Quickly became very active in the tank.
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20 Cardinal Tetras
Paul did a great job with the delivery. We coordinated around the winter storms and all tetras arrived alive. Good Job!!
