Cardinal Tetra 2-3cm

The Cardinal Tetra, scientifically known as Paracheirodon axelrodi, is a stunning and vibrant freshwater fish that adds a dazzling splash of colour to any aquarium. Closely related to the popular Neon Tetra, the Cardinal Tetra boasts even more brilliant coloration, with a deep red stripe running the full length of its body, complemented by an iridescent blue stripe above it. Native to the slow-moving waters of the Amazon Basin in South America, Cardinal Tetras are prized by aquarists for their beauty, peaceful temperament, and ease of care. These social fish thrive in schools, making them a perfect choice for community tanks where they can create a mesmerising display of synchronised swimming.

Key Features:

• Scientific Name: Paracheirodon axelrodi
• Size: Typically grows up to 1.5-2 inches in length
• Diet: Omnivorous; enjoys a varied diet of high-quality flakes, micro pellets, and occasional live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms
• Temperament: Peaceful; highly compatible with other non-aggressive fish, making them ideal for community tanks
• Habitat: Prefers tanks with plenty of plants, dim lighting, and soft, slightly acidic water
• Care Level: Easy; suitable for aquarists of all experience levels

Why Choose Cardinal Tetra?

The Cardinal Tetra is an excellent choice for aquarists looking to add a vibrant, peaceful, and easy-to-care-for fish to their aquarium. Its full-length red stripe, paired with the bright blue stripe, creates a stunning contrast against the green plants and dark substrate, making them a focal point in any tank. Cardinal Tetras are known for their strong schooling behaviour, and when kept in groups of six or more, they exhibit natural, synchronised swimming patterns that are both beautiful and calming to watch. Their small size and gentle nature make them compatible with a wide variety of other community fish, including tetras, rasboras, and Corydoras.

Care Tips:

• Water Parameters: Maintain stable water conditions with a temperature of 73°F - 81°F (23°C - 27°C), pH between 5.5 - 7.0, and soft to moderately hard water. Cardinal Tetras prefer slightly acidic, soft water, so regular water changes and careful monitoring of water quality are recommended.
• Feeding: Cardinal Tetras are omnivorous and should be provided with a balanced diet that includes high-quality flakes or micro pellets, supplemented with live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. A varied diet will help maintain their vibrant colouration and overall health.
• Tank Setup: Provide a tank with plenty of live or artificial plants to offer shelter and create a natural environment. Cardinal Tetras thrive in dimly lit tanks that mimic their natural habitat, so consider using floating plants or adjustable lighting. A tank of at least 15 gallons is recommended for a small school.
• Behaviour: Cardinal Tetras are social fish that thrive in groups of at least six individuals. Their schooling behaviour not only enhances their sense of security but also creates a stunning visual display in the aquarium. They are peaceful and make excellent tank mates for other small, non-aggressive species.

Perfect for Community and Planted Tanks:

Cardinal Tetras are an excellent choice for aquarists looking to add a colourful, peaceful, and easy-to-care-for fish to their community or planted tank. Their vibrant appearance and lively schooling behaviour make them a timeless and rewarding addition to any well-maintained aquarium.

Order Your Cardinal Tetras Today:

Bring the brilliant beauty and tranquil presence of Cardinal Tetras to your freshwater aquarium. Browse our selection and place your order today to receive healthy, vibrant fish that will thrive in your well-maintained aquatic environment.