Cardinal Tetra – Paracheirodon axelrodi
Cardinal Tetra
Paracheirodon axelrodi
Characteristics
The Cardinal Tetra is a small, vibrant fish known for its striking colors and peaceful nature. It thrives in well-planted aquariums with soft, acidic water.
Scientific Name: Paracheirodon axelrodi
Common Name: Cardinal Tetra
Family & Genus: Characidae, Paracheirodon
Size: Up to 5 cm (2 inches)
Lifespan: 3-5 years
Diet: Omnivorous (small insects, crustaceans, algae, flakes, pellets)
Tank Requirements: Soft, acidic water (pH 4.5-6.5), temperature 23-27°C (73-81°F), well-planted tank, low to moderate lighting
Temperament: Peaceful, schooling fish
Care Level: Beginner to intermediate
Breeding Difficulty: Challenging
Feeding Difficulty: Easy
Special Notes: Best kept in groups of 6 or more; sensitive to water parameter changes
Appearance
The Cardinal Tetra is renowned for its vibrant colors and sleek body shape.
Body Shape & Structure: Small, slender, torpedo-shaped
Coloration & Patterns: Bright blue stripe running along the body, with a vivid red lower half extending from the mid-body to the tail
Size at Maturity: Up to 5 cm
Sexual Dimorphism: Females tend to be slightly rounder-bodied than males
Notable Features: Vibrant coloration, highly attractive in planted aquariums
Origin and Habitat
Native to the Amazon River basin, the Cardinal Tetra thrives in blackwater streams and tributaries.
Native Habitat: Blackwater streams and tributaries
Geographical Distribution: Amazon River basin (Brazil, Colombia, Venezuela)
Preferred Water Conditions: Soft, acidic, tannin-rich water with minimal flow
Natural Diet: Small invertebrates, insect larvae, organic detritus
Behavior in the Wild: Schooling fish, found in large groups in slow-moving waters
Additional Information
Here are some additional details about the Cardinal Tetra.
Tank Mates & Compatibility: Best with other peaceful fish such as neon tetras, rasboras, and dwarf corydoras
Common Health Issues & Prevention: Prone to stress-related illnesses, susceptible to fin rot and ich; maintain stable water parameters and high water quality
Interesting Facts: Often confused with neon tetras but has more extensive red coloration
The Cardinal Tetra is an excellent choice for beginner and intermediate aquarists due to its peaceful nature, stunning coloration, and ease of feeding. It thrives in well-planted aquariums with stable water parameters and does best in groups, adding vibrant contrast to any tank. However, breeding can be challenging, and they require soft, acidic water conditions to truly flourish.
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