PisciDex Species Profile
Cardinal Tetra
Brightly colored soft-water tetra best kept in a larger group in calm, established community aquariums.
Paracheirodon axelrodi
Acestrorhamphidae | South America | Upper Orinoco and Rio Negro basins
Core Requirements
Tank Size
20 gallons minimum
Adult Size
2 inches
Group Size
Group 8+
Bioload
2/10
Water Parameters
Temperature
73-84 F
pH
5-7
Plant Safe
Yes
Invert Safe
Yes
Data Confidence
medium
Temperature note: Recommended and tolerated temperature ranges currently match the primary care profile.
Behavior & Husbandry
Temperament
Peaceful
Aggression
1/10
Diet
Omnivore
Difficulty
Intermediate
Lifespan
4 years
Breeding
Advanced
Schooling
Yes
Compatibility Tags
CommunityPeacefulSchoolingMid WaterPlant SafeInvert SafeSoftwaterBlackwater
Similar Species
Species Compatibility
Database-driven compatibility notes for planning community aquariums.