(66) Cardinal Tetra

The Cardinal Tetra (Paracheirodon axelrodi) is a peaceful and social freshwater fish from the Amazon Basin, prized for its vibrant blue stripe and bright red stripe. They are a classic addition to community aquariums, but require a mature and stable tank to thrive

• Tank Size: A minimum of 20 gallons is recommended for a school of at least 6 to 10 fish. A longer tank is better than a taller one to provide ample horizontal swimming space.
• Decor: They prefer a planted tank with plenty of cover, such as driftwood and live plants. Dark substrate and subdued lighting, achieved with floating plants, will help their colors stand out.
• Filtration: A gentle filtration system that doesn't create a strong current is ideal.
• Maintenance: A mature, cycled tank with stable water conditions is crucial. Perform regular, partial water changes to maintain pristine water quality. 

• Staple: High-quality flake or micro-pellet food.
• Supplement: Small live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, or bloodworms.
• Frequency: Feed small amounts several times daily to mimic their natural grazing behavior. 

• Temperament: Cardinal Tetras are peaceful and social fish. They should be kept in a school of at least six individuals to feel secure and display natural schooling behaviors.
• Tank Mates: Good companions include other peaceful, similarly sized fish that won't outcompete them for food, such as:
  • Corydoras catfish
  • Dwarf gouramis
  • Harlequin rasboras
  • Rummy-nose tetras
• Compatibility: While they can coexist with adult dwarf shrimp, they may opportunistically eat the fry. Avoid larger or aggressive tank mates that may eat or intimidate them.
• Difference from Neon Tetras: The red stripe on a Cardinal Tetra runs the entire length of its body, unlike the Neon Tetra, where the stripe extends only halfway.
• Lifespan: With proper care in a home aquarium, they can live for up to 5 years