Cardinal Tetra

Cardinal Tetra    ( Paracheirodon axelrodi )

Grows to: 1.5"

Hobbyist Level:  These fish can be more challenging than many other tetras. If you are a beginner, be sure to provide the proper tank conditions.

How Many?  They are a schooling fish that do best  in groups of 6 or more.

Housing: Provide plenty of swimming room as well as some bushy plants for hiding.  They look good with a dark background and substrate.  They swim in the mid to top region of the tank.  They enjoy a moderate water current. Cardinal Tetras will not tolerate high nitrate levels and frequent water changes are often needed.  They prefer very soft water.  Minimum tank size is about 10 gallons. (Temperature- 73-82),  (pH 6.0-6.8).

Tank mates: They are peaceful fish that should be kept with other peaceful fish of similar size.  They will school with neon tetras.  An example of some suitable tank mates may include Lemon Tetras, Silver Tip Tetras, Rummynose Tetras, and Corydoras Catfish.

Feeding:  They will accept a variety of foods.   They have small mouths are require soft flakes and bite size foods.  Feed flakes, along with , mysis shrimp,  brine shrimp and other frozen foods.  Tetras will show their best color after you have owned it for a few months and have given them a good diet.  They are an omnivore.

Natural Habitat:  Brazil.

Males and Females:  Adult females will appear more round bodied when plump with eggs.