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Cardinal Tetra

Cardinal Tetra

Origin

🇧🇷

Brazil

🇨🇴

Colombia

🇻🇪

Venezuela

South America

Habitat Size

20-50 Liters

Water Type

Fresh Water

Water Temperature

23º-27ºC

Cost in India

₹50 - ₹100

Size

1.2 - 2 inches (Nano)

Diet

Omnivore

A Cardinal Tetra displays vibrant blue and red stripes along its body with clear fins
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by Happy Pet TeamUpdated on 19 Nov 2025

Cardinal Tetra Fish is a captive freshwater marine native to the blackwater and clearwater tributaries of the Amazon Basin in South America. It is loved by aquarists primarily because of the vibrant blue and red colouration.

The Cardinal Tetra Fish adds a dash of vibrancy to the aquarium. It boasts a full-length red stripe, unlike its close relative; the Neon Tetra. The fish is commonly known as Red Neon Tetra by many.

Size of Red Neon Tetra

Cardinal Tetra size is about 4–5 cm (1.5–2 inches) in length, making them slightly larger and more vividly colored than Neon Tetras.

Cardinal Tetra Fish Life Expectancy

Cardinal Tetra lifespan is up to 5 years or more. It can grow bigger if kept properly under captivity.

Cardinal Tetra Price

Cardinal Tetra price varies depending on the vendor and location. It is available for purchase in India at prices ranging from ₹80 to ₹150 per pair.

Best Tank Mates

  1. Neon Tetras
  2. Harlequin Rasboras
  3. Corydoras Catfish
  4. Otocinclus Catfish
  5. Shrimp species like Amano and Cherry Shrimp

Avoid Pairing with

  1. Large, aggressive fish such as Cichlids or Arowanas
  2. Fin-nipping species like Barbs
  3. Predatory fish that may view Tetras as prey

Characteristics

Temperament

Aggressive

Friendly

Compatibility with other fishes

Not Friendly

Super Friendly

Habitat Size

Small

Large

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Cardinal Tetra Fish Habitat

Initial Setup Cost

₹3,000 - ₹6,000

Water Temperature

23º -27ºC

Water Type

Fresh Water

PH Level

4 - 6.5

Maintain the habitat given below to ensure the Cardinal Tetra fish thrives and lives a long and happy life.

Parameter

Details

Minimum Tank Size

20 gallons (75 liters)

Water Temperature

23–28°C (73–82°F)

pH Level

4.5–7.0 (soft, acidic water)

Hardness

Soft to moderately hard

Lighting

Low to moderate; subdued lighting preferred

Substrate

Fine-gravel or sand with live plants

Tank Setup

Dense planting with floating plants for cover

Essential Equipment

Aquarium tank

Water filter

Heater

Light

Substrate

Decor

Dietary Needs of Cardinal Tetra Fish

Avg Monthly Expenses

₹50 - ₹ 100

Cardinal Tetra fish is omnivorous and thrive on a varied diet.

Food Type

Examples

High-quality flakes

Hikari Micro Pellets, Fluval Bug Bites

Live/Frozen foods

Daphnia, baby brine shrimp, bloodworms

Sinking pellets

Sera Vipan, Omega One Small Fish Formula

Occasional treats

Blanched vegetables like spinach or zucchini

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Health & Care of Cardinal Tetra Fish

Common Health Issues

Fin rot

White spot / ick

Ammonia poisoning

Fungus

Swim bladder disease

Bacterial infections

Signs of good health

Active

Bright coloration

Good apetite

Signs of sickness

Loss of appetite

Lethargic behaviour

Frequent hiding

Dull coloring

Swimming abnormally

Cardinal Tetras are hardy when kept in stable, clean conditions. Regular maintenance and balanced feeding are key to their long, healthy life.

  1. Maintain optimum water quality
  2. Keep a stable temperature
  3. Feed in moderation & avoid overfeeding
  4. Watch for common diseases
  5. Avoid sudden lighting changes

Prerequisites for a Fish

Adequate tank space

Cleanliness

Effort & commitment

Enriching Environment

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Written by

Happy Pet Team

Author

Team Happy Pet is a passionate collective of pet experts, enthusiasts, and advocates dedicated to sharing trusted and insightful content.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many Cardinal Tetras should be kept together?

Cardinal Tetras should be kept in groups of at least six to promote natural schooling behavior and reduce stress.

What should I feed my Cardinal Tetras?

A varied diet of high-quality flake food, small pellets, and live or frozen foods like brine shrimp and daphnia.

Do Cardinal Tetras breed easily in home aquariums?

Breeding Cardinal Tetras can be challenging in home aquariums due to specific water parameters and conditions needed for successful spawning and fry survival.