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Species Profiles -> Characins -> Cardinal Tetra

Cardinal Tetra (Paracheirodon axelrodi)

Synonyms: ...
Stats: Adult Size: 1 1/2"- 2 3/4" (4.5-6 cm)
Temp: 73-81 F (23-27 C)
Tank: 24" (60 cm) minimum
Requirements: Subdued lighting and lots of plants preferred. Peaceful tankmates.
Diet: Small invertebrates, but will eat almost any prepared foods.
Breeding: Very low pH and soft water required. Males more slender.
Sociability: In the wild lives in huge shoals, needs at least 10 others of its kind.
Related Spec: Paracheirodon innesi -Neon Tetra
Special Info: More sensitive than the related neon tetras, but actually much hardier than some recent imports, cardinals are a much brighter somewhat healthier addition to an aquarium.

 

 

Images (Click to enlarge)

Cardinal Tetra image
Image courtesy of Mia Woodman