Cardinal Tetra (Paracheirodon axelrodi)

Fish in the family Characidae. Easy care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific nameParacheirodon axelrodi

FamilyCharacidae

Also known asCardinal

Care levelEasy

Reef safetyFreshwater

TemperamentPeaceful

Dietomnivore

Adult size2 in

Minimum tank size15 gallons

Water parametersTemp 73-82°F, pH 4.5-6.8, GH 1-8 dGH

Appearance

Full-length iridescent blue stripe with a red stripe running the entire body length (unlike neon's half-length red).

Difficulty and care for the Cardinal Tetra

Easy

Origin and habitat

South America (upper Orinoco and Rio Negro)

Keeper notes

Peaceful community schooler; no nipping tendencies.

Log Cardinal Tetra in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Cardinal Tetra alongside everything else in your reef.

Download Reef Trak See the full app