Tank setup
Size the aquarium to Cardinal Tetra's adult size and activity level. Match décor to natural behaviour — plants, rockwork, or open swimming room as needed.
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Freshwater Fish
Tetras & Small Schooling Fish
Common
Paracheirodon axelrodi
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What to know before you buy.
Similar to the Neon Tetra, the Cardinal Tetra boasts a more extensive red stripe that runs the full length of its body. They are slightly larger and prefer warmer, softer water, making them a stunning centerpiece school. Cardinals are best kept in large groups to showcase their brilliant coloration and natural behaviors.
Key traits
Select a tank to see how this species fits.
Everything you need to keep Cardinal Tetra healthy in a South African setup.
Size the aquarium to Cardinal Tetra's adult size and activity level. Match décor to natural behaviour — plants, rockwork, or open swimming room as needed.
Keep pH 5.5–7 and 23–28°C. Stable parameters matter more than chasing perfect numbers — acclimate new arrivals slowly.
Cardinal Tetra is an omnivore. Feed a varied diet appropriate for freshwater fish — quality flakes, pellets, or frozen foods sized to the mouth.
Cardinal Tetra is generally peaceful. Keep in a group where possible for natural behaviour.
Pair with similarly sized peaceful tankmates in freshwater fish. Avoid fin-nippers or species that outgrow this fish.
Breeding notes for Cardinal Tetra vary by line and water chemistry — ask your local shop about proven pairs in SA.
From hobbyists across SA.
Price trends and buyer demand — data only FishHub tracks.
SA price range this month: R35–65 · Average: R49
This data is unique to FishHub
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Species that typically work alongside Cardinal Tetra in a similar setup.
Ember Tetra
Hyphessobrycon amandae
Pristella Tetra
Pristella maxillaris
Glass Bloodfin Tetra
Prionobrama filigera
Flame Tetra
Hyphessobrycon flammeus
Ruby Tetra
Axelrodia riesei
Rosy Tetra
Hyphessobrycon rosaceus
Green Neon Tetra
Paracheirodon simulans
Buenos Aires Tetra
Hyphessobrycon anisitsi