All fish / Characidae

Cardinal tetra

Paracheirodon axelrodi

Also known as cardinal, 宝莲灯

Like the neon, but the red covers the whole lower body. Prefers warmer, softer water.

Care at a glance

Care level

Moderate

Temperament

Peaceful

Adult size

4 cm

Temperature

24 to 29 °C

pH

4.5 to 7

Smallest tank

60 litres

Keep as

Shoal of 8 or more

Diet

Omnivore: micro pellets, frozen foods

Swims

Middle of the tank

Lifespan

4 to 5 years

Water

Freshwater

Wild range

Rio Negro and Orinoco basins

Breeding

Rarely bred; most are wild-caught. Needs very soft, acidic water.

Good to know

A good tankmate for discus, as it takes the same warm water.