The Cardinal tetra is an old aquarium favorite. Often confused with the smaller Neon tetra, these Characins display striking colors of blue and red usually only seen with Marine fish. Their bodies are slender; the upper half being blue and the lower half being red. All fins are transparent.

Tank Setup

Cardinal tetras make a great addition to the community aquarium. It is highly recommended to keep these fish in schools of six or more. The aquarium should be dimly lit with floating plants and driftwood if available. These fish are only to be kept with other smaller fishes such as other tetra species and corydoras.

Feeding

Being small fish, Cardinal tetras need small foods such as flakes and small aquatic invertebrates, live or frozen. They are omnivorous fish.

Water Chemistry

Cardinals need an acidic pH with soft water. A temperature between 72-79 degrees F is appreciated.

Breeding

Sexing is possible; males are generally slimmer than females. Spawning happens during the evening on brushy plants such as Java Moss. The females lays around 500 eggs. For more information see the breeding habits of the Neon tetra.