Cardinal Tetra

What Are Cardinal Tetras?

Cardinal Tetras are admired for their brilliant blue and red coloring that runs the length of their bodies. They're a bit more demanding than Neon Tetras, requiring soft, acidic water and a stable environment to thrive.

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What Do Cardinal Tetras Eat?

Cardinal Tetras prefer a varied diet that includes small, high-quality flake foods, micro pellets, and frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp and daphnia. They appreciate the inclusion of plant-based nutrients as well.

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Do Cardinal Tetras Eat Algae?

Cardinal Tetras may occasionally graze on algae, but they primarily require a diet rich in animal protein and should not be relied upon for algae control.

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How Big Do Cardinal Tetras Get?

Cardinal Tetras can reach up to 2 inches (5 cm) in length, making them slightly larger than Neon Tetras and suitable for small to medium-sized aquariums.

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How Many Cardinal Tetras in a 5, 10, 20 Gallon Tank?

A 5-gallon tank is too small for Cardinal Tetras due to their schooling nature. A group of 6-8 can be kept in a 10-gallon tank; for a 20-gallon tank, a school of 10-15 is ideal, allowing for adequate swimming space and social interaction.

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How Long Do Cardinal Tetras Live?

With optimal care, Cardinal Tetras can live up to 5 years in a home aquarium setting.

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How Many Cardinal Tetras Should be Kept Together?

Cardinal Tetras are schooling fish and should be kept in groups of at least 6. Larger schools (10+) are preferred to help them feel secure and display natural behaviors.

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How to Breed Cardinal Tetras?

1. Set Up Breeding Tank: Prepare a dimly lit, quiet tank (10-20 gallons) with soft, acidic water (pH 4.5-6.2) and a temperature of 80°F (27°C).
2. Condition the Pair: Feed potential breeders with a varied diet of live foods to encourage spawning.
3. Provide Spawning Sites: Use fine-leaved plants or a spawning mop for egg deposition.
4. Water Change: Simulate the rainy season with a significant water change using softer, slightly cooler water.
5. Monitor for Spawning: Spawning typically occurs at dawn. Remove the adults post-spawning to protect the eggs.
6. Egg and Fry Care: Maintain darkness to protect the light-sensitive eggs, which hatch in about 24 hours. Feed fry with infusoria or specially formulated fry food until they can eat larger foods.