Cardinal Tetra

Fish Species

Cardinal Tetra

Paracheirodon axelrodi

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About

The Cardinal Tetra is a small, vibrant freshwater fish renowned for its striking iridescent blue stripe and bright red lower half. It is a peaceful, schooling species, making it a popular choice for community aquariums. Native to the blackwater and clearwater streams of the Amazon Basin, they thrive in soft, acidic water with plenty of vegetation and subdued lighting.

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Classification

Scientific Name

Paracheirodon axelrodi

Origin Region

South America (Amazon Basin)

Water Type

freshwater

Diet

Omnivore

Care Difficulty

Beginner

Max Size

5 cm | 2.0 in

Water Requirements
Amazon Basin

Temperature

24–29°C

pH

5.5–7

GH Hardness

1–8dGH

KH Alkalinity

1–4dKH

Min Tank Size

40L