Overview
- The Cardinal Tetra (Paracheirodon axelrodi) has a neon-blue stripe above a red lower body that runs the full length of the body.
- Native to forest streams in the Rio Negro and upper Orinoco basins of Brazil, Colombia and Venezuela.
- Grows to about 1.4 in (3.5 cm) standard length.
- Now commercially bred on a large scale, though wild fish are still exported.
Feeding
- Likely omnivorous, eating small invertebrates, algae and fallen fruit.
- Accepts dried foods, but does best with live or frozen bloodworm, mosquito larvae, Daphnia and Moina.
Habitat
- A tank with a base of 24 × 12 in (60 × 30 cm) or larger.
- Heavy planting, or sand, driftwood and leaf litter.
- Water: 73–84°F (23–29°C), pH 3.5–7.5, GH 1–12. Wild fish do best in softer, more acidic water.
Fish Care
- Wild fish handle poor water conditions worse than farmed fish.
- Needs warmer water than the neon tetra.
Compatibility
- Good with similar-sized characins, hatchetfish, pencilfish, small catfish and small non-predatory cichlids.
Aquarium Behavior
- Generally peaceful. Keep a group of at least 8–10.
- Other schooling fish help it feel secure.
Breeding
- Use a separate, very dim tank with java moss, spawning mops or mesh.
- Soft, acidic water is needed.
- Adults eat the eggs. Eggs and fry are sensitive to light. [UNVERIFIED]