Description
Cardinal Tetra – Paracheirodon axelrodi: A Comprehensive Care Guide
Introduction:
The Cardinal Tetra (Paracheirodon axelrodi) is one of the most popular and recognizable species in the aquarium hobby, renowned for its stunning coloration. This small, peaceful tetra features a striking red body and bright blue iridescent markings along its sides, making it a favorite among fish enthusiasts. Cardinal Tetras typically reach a size of 1.5 to 2.5 inches (3.8 to 5 cm), and they do best in schools of 6 or more individuals to display their full beauty and natural behavior.
1. Natural Habitat and Behavior
- Natural Habitat: Native to the blackwater rivers of the Amazon Basin in South America, Cardinal Tetras are typically found in slow-moving streams with heavily vegetated areas and low light conditions.
- Behavior: These fish are peaceful and prefer to swim in schools, creating a striking display of color when in groups. They spend most of their time in the middle to upper levels of the aquarium and exhibit a natural shoaling behavior, which reduces stress and enhances their vibrancy.
2. Aquarium Setup
- Tank Size: A minimum of 10 gallons (38 liters) is recommended for a school of Cardinal Tetras, although a larger tank will provide more space for them to swim and for other tankmates.
- Substrate: Fine gravel or sand is ideal, but as they do not interact much with the substrate, almost any type of substrate is acceptable.
- Decor: Cardinal Tetras appreciate a tank with plenty of live plants such as Amazon Sword, Java Fern, or Cryptocoryne. The addition of driftwood or rocks will provide hiding spaces and mimic their natural environment.
- Water Conditions: These tetras thrive in slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH range of 4.5 to 7.0 and a temperature range of 73°F to 81°F (23°C to 27°C). They prefer soft water, so using a water softener or regular water changes will keep them healthy.
- Lighting: Dim lighting is best for these fish, as it mimics their natural habitat, with floating plants or aquarium hoods that provide shaded areas.
3. Diet and Feeding
- Diet: The Cardinal Tetra is an omnivorous species that will accept a variety of foods. Provide high-quality flake or pellet food designed for tropical fish, as well as live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms to ensure a balanced diet.
- Feeding Schedule: Feed 1-2 times a day, offering just enough food that can be consumed within a few minutes. This helps maintain water quality and prevents overfeeding.
4. Compatibility with Other Fish
- Compatible Species: Cardinal Tetras are peaceful and do well with other non-aggressive fish. Ideal tankmates include other tetras, rasboras, small peaceful cichlids, and catfish. Avoid large or aggressive species that may harass them.
- Incompatible Species: Larger or more aggressive fish, especially fin-nippers like some cichlids, should be avoided as they can harm or stress Cardinal Tetras.
5. Common Challenges and Tips
- Schooling Behavior: To keep them healthy and vibrant, always keep Cardinal Tetras in a school of at least 6 individuals. A lack of companionship may lead to stress and reduced coloration.
- Water Quality: Cardinal Tetras are sensitive to poor water conditions, so maintaining clean, soft, and slightly acidic water is crucial. Perform weekly water changes of 25% and ensure the water is well-filtered.
- Temperature Fluctuations: Sudden temperature changes can stress the Cardinal Tetra. Use a reliable aquarium heater to maintain a consistent water temperature.
Conclusion:
The Cardinal Tetra (Paracheirodon axelrodi) is a beautiful, peaceful fish that adds vibrant color and natural charm to any aquarium. When kept in schools, with stable water parameters and a balanced diet, these fish are relatively easy to care for and will reward hobbyists with their stunning colors and active behavior.
