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Freshwater fishCardinal Tetra (School of 6)
Cardinal Tetra (School of 6)
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The most popular fish in Europe is sure to be popular in your aquarium, and these fish really need to stay in schools.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Paracheirodon axelrodi |
| Origin | Rio Negro and Orinoco basins (Brazil, Colombia, Venezuela) |
| Care Level | Moderate (needs soft, clean water) |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Adult Size | Up to 1½" |
| Lifespan | 3–5 years |
| Diet | Omnivore (tiny foods) |
| Water Temperature | 76–84°F |
| pH | 5.0–7.0 |
| Group Size | Sold as a school of 6 |
| Shipping Size | Medium: approx. ¾–1" · Large: approx. 1¼–1½" |
Care Guide
Tank setup: These small tetras do best in a planted tank with soft, slightly acidic water, a dark substrate, driftwood, floating plants and gentle filtration. A larger school makes them more confident and colorful.
Feeding: Feed small amounts of micro pellets or crushed flake once or twice a day. They also enjoy frozen brine shrimp.
Tankmates: Keep them with other small, peaceful fish like rasboras, small tetras, pencilfish, pygmy corydoras, otocinclus and dwarf shrimp. Avoid large or boisterous fish that could eat or bully them.
Good to know: Small tetras show their best color in a large school in a planted tank with soft lighting.
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