Cardinal Tetra (Paracheirodon axelrodi) – Care, Tank Requirements & Aquarium Tips
Cardinal Tetra -- paracheirodon axelrodi See more Aquarium Fish Image Gallery.
Scientific name: Paracheirodon axelrodi
One of the most popular of all tropical fish, the Cardinal Tetra grows to about 1.5 inches and must be kept in shoals. Tankmates must be peaceful and not too large. A water temperature of 72º to 82º Fahrenheit with a pH between 5.3 and 7.8 is good. The Cardinal Tetra does well on flake and freeze-dried foods.
Tetra Image Gallery
With its colorless fins and deep red body split by a bold blue stripe, the Cardinal Tetra makes quite a sight in an aquarium. Dark gravel and background help to emphasize the colors of this fish, and it shows its colors best in relatively soft, acidic water.
To learn more about freshwater aquariums, see:
- Cardinal Tetra (Red Neon Tetra): Essential Care Guide & Species Overview
- Diamond Tetra (Moenkhausia pitteri) – Ideal Care & Stunning Colors
- Black Phantom Tetra (Megalamphodus melanopterus) – Hardy, Elegant Aquatic Gem
- Glowlight Tetra – Vibrant Hemigrammus erythrozonus for Thriving Aquariums
- X‑Ray Tetra (Pristella maxillaria): Beginner‑Friendly, Fast‑Swimming Community Fish
- Red‑Eye Tetra (Moenkhausia sanctaefilomenae): Care Guide & Tankmates
- Congo Tetra (Phenacogrammus interruptus) – African Aquarium Fish