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Cardinal Tetras (Paracheirodon axelrodi)

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Care Requirements

  • Water Parameters: Cardinal Tetras thrive in a pH range of 5.5-7.0. They prefer soft, slightly acidic water.
  • Temperature: The ideal temperature range for Cardinal Tetras is 23-27°C (73-81°F).
  • Tank Setup: A well-planted tank with a dark substrate and subdued lighting mimics their natural habitat and helps showcase their vibrant colors. They appreciate open swimming spaces interspersed with dense planting.
  • Water Conditions: Maintain excellent water quality with regular water changes and good filtration. Cardinal Tetras are sensitive to poor water conditions.

Feeding Habits

  • Diet: Cardinal Tetras are omnivorous. They thrive on a varied diet that includes high-quality flake food, micro-pellets, and small live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms.
  • Feeding Frequency: Feed them once or twice daily. Offer only what they can consume within a few minutes to prevent overfeeding and water quality issues.

Behavior

  • Activity: Cardinal Tetras are active and peaceful schooling fish. They prefer to swim in the middle levels of the tank.
  • Social Structure: They should be kept in groups of at least 6-10 individuals to reduce stress and display natural schooling behavior.
  • Breeding: Breeding Cardinal Tetras can be challenging but is possible in a controlled environment. They require soft, slightly acidic water and subdued lighting. Eggs are laid among fine-leaved plants or spawning mops.

Tank Mates

  • Compatibility: Cardinal Tetras are peaceful and do well with other non-aggressive fish of similar size. Suitable tank mates include other tetras, rasboras, small catfish, and peaceful bottom-dwellers.
  • Avoid: Avoid keeping them with large or aggressive fish that may harass or eat them.

Additional Tips

  • Water Stability: Cardinal Tetras are sensitive to changes in water conditions. Ensure stable water parameters and gradual changes if needed.
  • Schooling: Keeping them in adequate numbers is essential for their well-being and to witness their beautiful schooling behavior.
  • Observation: Regularly check for signs of stress or illness, such as loss of color or erratic swimming.

Adding Cardinal Tetras to your aquarium brings a splash of vibrant color and dynamic schooling behavior, enhancing the visual appeal and creating a harmonious community environment.

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