Cardinal Tetra (Paracheirodon axelrodi) – Iconic Schooling Fish with Brilliant Red and Blue Colors
The Cardinal Tetra, Paracheirodon axelrodi, is one of the most popular and striking tropical freshwater fish in the hobby. Famous for its bold, iridescent neon-blue stripe and vivid crimson-red body, this peaceful schooling fish adds vibrant color and harmony to any planted or community aquarium.
Native to the slow-moving blackwater streams of South America, Cardinal Tetras prefer soft, acidic water and thrive in heavily planted tanks with gentle filtration. When kept in groups of 6 or more, they display stunning synchronized swimming and feel more secure, bringing out their best coloration and behavior.
Scientific Name: Paracheirodon axelrodi
Common Name: Cardinal Tetra
Size Shipped: ~0.5–0.75”
Adult Size: ~1.25–2 inches
Temperament: Peaceful, social
Swimming Level: Midwater
Schooling: Best kept in groups of 6+ (more recommended)
Lifespan: 3–5 years
Origin: Tank-raised (not wild-caught)
Temperature: 74°F – 80°F (23°C – 27°C)
pH: 5.0 – 7.0
GH: 1 – 6
KH: 0 – 4
Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons (20+ gallons for larger schools)
Aquascape: Dim lighting, dark substrate, live plants, driftwood
Filtration: Low to moderate flow, stable water quality
✔ Stunning neon-blue and crimson-red coloration
✔ Ideal for planted and blackwater aquascapes
✔ Peaceful nature fits well in community setups
✔ Hardy when kept in stable, soft water
✔ Schooling behavior adds movement and beauty
High-quality micro pellets or flakes
Live or frozen treats: baby brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia
Feed 1–2 times daily in small portions
Cardinal Tetras are perfect for hobbyists seeking color, movement, and peaceful temperament in a small, manageable fish. Whether you're building a lush aquascape or a serene community tank, these iconic fish never fail to impress.
Cardinal Tetra (Paracheirodon axelrodi) – Iconic Schooling Fish with Brilliant Red and Blue Colors
The Cardinal Tetra, Paracheirodon axelrodi, is one of the most popular and striking tropical freshwater fish in the hobby. Famous for its bold, iridescent neon-blue stripe and vivid crimson-red body, this peaceful schooling fish adds vibrant color and harmony to any planted or community aquarium.
Native to the slow-moving blackwater streams of South America, Cardinal Tetras prefer soft, acidic water and thrive in heavily planted tanks with gentle filtration. When kept in groups of 6 or more, they display stunning synchronized swimming and feel more secure, bringing out their best coloration and behavior.
Scientific Name: Paracheirodon axelrodi
Common Name: Cardinal Tetra
Size Shipped: ~0.5–0.75”
Adult Size: ~1.25–2 inches
Temperament: Peaceful, social
Swimming Level: Midwater
Schooling: Best kept in groups of 6+ (more recommended)
Lifespan: 3–5 years
Origin: Tank-raised (not wild-caught)
Temperature: 74°F – 80°F (23°C – 27°C)
pH: 5.0 – 7.0
GH: 1 – 6
KH: 0 – 4
Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons (20+ gallons for larger schools)
Aquascape: Dim lighting, dark substrate, live plants, driftwood
Filtration: Low to moderate flow, stable water quality
✔ Stunning neon-blue and crimson-red coloration
✔ Ideal for planted and blackwater aquascapes
✔ Peaceful nature fits well in community setups
✔ Hardy when kept in stable, soft water
✔ Schooling behavior adds movement and beauty
High-quality micro pellets or flakes
Live or frozen treats: baby brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia
Feed 1–2 times daily in small portions
Cardinal Tetras are perfect for hobbyists seeking color, movement, and peaceful temperament in a small, manageable fish. Whether you're building a lush aquascape or a serene community tank, these iconic fish never fail to impress.
