Cardinal Tetra

Scientific name: Paracheirodon axelrodi

One of the most popular of all tropical fish, the Cardinal Tetra grows to about 1.5 inches and must be kept in shoals. Tankmates must be peaceful and not too large. A water temperature of 72º to 82º Fahrenheit with a pH between 5.3 and 7.8 is good. The Cardinal Tetra does well on flake and freeze-dried foods.

Tetra Image Gallery

With its colorless fins and deep red body split by a bold blue stripe, the Cardinal Tetra makes quite a sight in an aquarium. Dark gravel and background help to emphasize the colors of this fish, and it shows its colors best in relatively soft, acidic water.