Cardinal Tetra
Paracheirodon axelrodi · family Characidae
Parameters
- Temperature
- 23–27 °C
- pH
- 4.5–7
- Hardness
- 1–12 °dGH
- Tank volume
- from 80 L
- Maximum size
- up to 5 cm
- Group size
- min 6, ideal 12
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Swimming zone
- Middle
- Difficulty
- Intermediate
- Lifespan
- 4–6 years
Description
The cardinal tetra is more vivid than the neon: the red stripe runs the entire body length. Requires soft acidic water and is somewhat less hardy than the neon, hence the intermediate care level.
Care
Warm, soft water (23–26 °C, pH ≤7.0). A mature tank with dense planting and a dark substrate.
Feeding
Small flakes and frozen micro-foods. Schooling feeding sessions establish a routine.
Compatibility
Compatibility data not yet available.
FAQ
- Чем кардинал отличается от неона?
- У кардинала красная полоса по всему телу; у неона — только в задней половине. Кардинал требует более мягкой и кислой воды.
Goldie editorial team
Practising aquarists with a combined 30+ years of experience · Biologists and editors, fact-checking against FishBase and Seriously Fish · Every piece is reviewed by a qualified ichthyologist before publication
Scientific board — ichthyologists and veterinarians
Ichthyologists and veterinarians with university degrees · Reference FishBase, Seriously Fish and peer-reviewed literature · Sign every reviewed article with their credentials shown
Sources
- Wikipedia: Paracheirodon axelrodi · Wikipedia · 2026-05-22