The Cardinal tetra is one of the world’s most popular aquarium fish species and is the bigger brother of the Neon Tetra, very similar in colouring but noticably larger with their red line all the way along their body. They are a schooling fish that require a decent amount of friends to feel safe and comfortable.
Synonyms | Cheirodon axelrodi, Hyphessobrycon cardinalis |
Distribution | South America: Upper Orinoco and Negro River Basins. |
Sexual Dimorphism | Males are usually slightly smaller and slimmer than females of the same age. |
Maximum Size | 2.5cm (1”) |
Water Parameters | Soft and acidic. pH: 4.0-6.0, dH: 5-12 degrees. |
Temperature | 23-27 deg C (73-81 deg F) |
Compatibility | Softwater community |
Lighting | No special requirements |
Housing
Cardinal Tetras not only prefer softwater its recomended as they are known to develop kidney damage in hard water which will result in premature death, they need to be kept in at least groups of 6. A well planted aquarium is recommended along with other small, peaceful fish species. To go the extra mile with their habitat add tannins (indian almond leaf) and ensure the water is slow moving.
Feeding
Varied diet of flakes, micro pellets and frozen / fresh food (brine shrimp, daphnia, mosquito larvae)
Breeding
Breeding can be challenging due to the very specific requirements for breeding. Very soft water with temperature inthe higher ranges for the fish, additionally it is widely thought that the Cardinal Tetra spawn in the dark, the fact that their eggs are extremely photo sensitive adds to this. Upto 150 eggs can be laid with some reports of well over 300, one they have been laid and fertilised the breeding pair should be removed and acllimatised to the main aquarium as they will predate on the eggs.
Keeping the eggs in darkness is highly recommended, they should hatch within 36 hours. Once the fry have consumed their yolk sac and are free swimming they should be fed on infusoria and liquid fry food, lighting is ok at this stage however it should still be extremely dim as the fry are still very light sensitive. Throughtout this process keeping water conditions stable is also required.