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freshwaterTetra
Paracheirodon axelrodi
Also known as: Cardinal Tetra, Red Neon
IntermediatePeacefulOmnivore
About
The cardinal tetra is a classic blackwater characin closely related to the neon tetra. The full-length red band (not just the rear half like the neon) and rich blue make it a showpiece in planted aquaria. Wild populations occur in soft, acidic rivers in the upper Orinoco and Rio Negro basins. They need stable, warm water (about 24–28 °C) and soft to moderately soft conditions to thrive; they are less forgiving of cool or hard water than many neons. Keep in groups of at least six, ideally ten or more, in a mature planted tank with gentle flow and subdued lighting.
Feeding & Diet
Small flake or micro pellets; frozen daphnia, brine shrimp, or cyclops; occasional live foods in tiny portions.
Frequency: 1–2× daily
Feed variety for best colour; avoid overfeeding in soft-water setups.
Habitat
Native Region: South America (upper Orinoco and Rio Negro basins)
Tannin-stained forest streams and floodplains; leaf litter, roots, low conductivity.
Soft water, stable warmth, mature filter, plants and driftwood; avoid temperature swings.
Behavior
Activity Level: Moderate
Schooling Size: 6+ recommended
Schools tightly in suitable water; colour may dull in poor conditions or small groups.
Breeding
Difficulty: Difficult
Type: Egg scatterer
Sexual Dimorphism: Females often plumper when carrying eggs.
Requires very soft, acidic water and often dim light; eggs are adhesive and easily eaten; dedicated breeding setup usual.
Tank Setup
Substrate: Either
Plant Safe: Yes
Dark substrate and botanicals can enhance colour; leave open swimming room.
Your tanks
Add this species to a saved tank stocking list.
Care Requirements
Family
Characidae
Genus
Paracheirodon
Maximum Size
5 cm
Minimum Tank Size
60 liters
Temperature
24-28°C
pH Range
4.5-6.8
Tank Region
Middle
Lifespan
4–7 years
Growth Rate
Moderate
Min Group Size
6+ fish
Activity Level
Moderate
Breeding Difficulty
Difficult
Breeding Type
Egg scatterer
Native Region
South America (upper Orinoco and Rio Negro basins)
Substrate
Either
Plant Safe
Yes
Good Tank Mates for Cardinal Tetra
These species are known to coexist peacefully and share compatible water conditions.
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