Cardinal Tetra
⚠️ Level: Medium — suitable for aquarists with some experience. Requires stable water quality and a well-planted aquarium.
The Cardinal Tetra (Paracheirodon axelrodi) is one of the most iconic aquarium fish in the world. With its bright red belly and metallic blue stripe running the entire length of its body, it is an absolute eye-catcher in any aquarium. As a schooling fish, it thrives best in larger groups — the larger the school, the more impressive its swimming behaviour.
🐠 Animal Specifications
| Scientific name | Paracheirodon axelrodi |
| Max. length | ±5 cm |
| Temperature | 23–28°C |
| pH | 6.0–7.0 |
| Min. aquarium length | 60 cm |
| Diet | Omnivore (small pellets, live food) |
| Min. school size | 10 pieces |
| Breeding behaviour | Egg-laying |
| Origin | South America (Rio Negro, Orinoco) |
| Family | Characidae |
| Difficulty | ⭐⭐ Medium |
🏪 Collection & Guarantee
- Only available for collection at our store in Heinkenszand — this animal will not be shipped
- Feel free to inspect the fish thoroughly in the store upon collection
- Don't hesitate to ask for advice on care or aquarium composition when collecting
✂️ Care
Cardinal Tetras thrive best in soft, slightly acidic water with a stable temperature. A densely planted aquarium with some open swimming space here and there is ideal. Feed small pellets and occasionally vary with live or frozen food such as daphnia or mosquito larvae. Note: their mouths are small, so choose appropriately sized food.
🐠 Combination Tip
The larger the school, the more impressive the swimming behaviour. A group of 15–20 Cardinal Tetras in a dark, planted aquarium with black sand is one of the most beautiful aquarium sights there is. They are peaceful and combine well with corydoras, small loaches, or other tetra species.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a Cardinal Tetra and a Neon Tetra?
The red stripe of the Cardinal Tetra runs the entire length of its body; with the Neon Tetra, it only runs over the rear half. The Cardinal Tetra is also slightly larger and requires slightly warmer temperatures.
How many Cardinal Tetras should I buy at minimum?
At least 10 — as a schooling fish, it feels insecure in small groups, which causes stress and colour loss.
Are Cardinal Tetras suitable for a shrimp tank?
Not ideal. Cardinal Tetras can eat small shrimp. It's better to combine them with larger shrimp species or opt for a separate shrimp tank.
Do you have another question? Feel free to visit us in the store — we're happy to help you make the right choice for your aquarium.
Why Aquarium Plant Shop?
- Many types of aquarium fish in stock.
- Pick up in store is possible 6 days a week.
- Livestock will not be shipped.
