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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Fast Shipping!
Fish were shipped overnight and arrived in less than 24 hours, 5 were alive out of six but I only paid for 5. The bodies are not red, but maybe that is a factor of sunlight?
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Cardinal tetra shipping assessment/summary
2 DOA out of 25 - very good ratio of success. Bag could’ve been a little bit bigger for 25 cardinals . Will order 25 more soon - if the price is still the same !? 5 stars is the rating for the service I received and thanks for the professionalism! Anthony Ross
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Beautiful fish
I would have given this a 5 out of 5 but 2 of the 10 that I ordered didn't make the trip. The other 8 however are lively and add the exact color and feel that I was hoping for in my community tank. Keep up the great work PetZone!
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Bad luck
They're sure beautiful but I've had some seriously bad luck with these; or i'm a terrible fish keeper. Either way, long term i've had less than 50% survival.
The fish that survived are pretty, though. -
Beautiful fish!
I purchased several of these fish for my aquarium. They colored up immediately and are looking great.
I had a shipping mishap the first round and had a few DOA which I was credited for, and the second batch were all very healthy and active without any problems.
Beautiful fish. -
Cardinal Tetras
I ordered 5 cardinal tetras online for an in store pick up. When I brought it home they seemed a little thin and not as energetic like normal tetras. The first one died within the hour and the rest soon followed suit. I brought them back to the store and the guys replaced them. I ended up buying another five cardinal tetras. They are now enjoying their 29 gallon planted tank. Gorgeous little things!
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Ten Cardinal Tetras arrived and looked good.
FedEx dropped the ball! Fish were on truck at 8:11 am, to be delivered by 10:30. They did not arrive until 1:45, the driver saying his truck broke down. Disappointed in them! Come morning I had eight left. They look great.
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So Pleased!
Could never find Cardinals in the area stores. I live on the East coast. They got to me in great shape. Thank You!
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arrived on time
all fish healthy, and pretty.. will be ordering from you in the furture..
