Cardinal Tetra - Paracheirodon axelrodi

Species name: Paracheirodon axelrodi

Synonym: Cheirodon axelrodi

Common name: Cardinal Tetra

Family: Characidae

Order: Characins

Class: Actinopterygii

Maximum size: 5 cm / 2 inches

Environment: Freshwater

Origin: Paracheirodon axelrodi (Cardinal Tetra) is widespread from Brazil to Eastern Colombia.

Temperament: Peaceful

Company: Paracheirodon axelrodi (Cardinal Tetra) is very suitable for community aquariums. Do not keep with angelfish.

Water parameters: Temperature 22-26˚C / 72-79˚F; pH 6.0 – 7.5

Aquarium setup: Paracheirodon axelrodi prefers a densely planted aquarium with dark bottom substrate. Leave some open space in the center of the aquarium. It is recommendable to use floating plants to dim the light. These fishes are sensitive to nitrites and regular water changes are a necessity. Cardinal Tetras should only be kept in schools of ten or more fishes. Paracheirodon axelrodi (Cardinal Tetra) is a very popular fish which unfortunately can be a bit sensitive. Neon tetras are a very similar species that is hardier and a better choice for beginners.

Feeding: Paracheirodon axelrodi eats flake food. However live foods is often required to get them in spawning condition.

Breeding: They are hard to breed and the fry is sensitive. They prefer very soft acidic water. They lay their eggs among fine leaved plants. The breeding pair should be removed as soon as the spawning is completed as they sometimes eat their own egg and fry. (It is possible to breed this species in a permanent breeding aquarium tank.) Each spawning can result in over 500 eggs. The fry is very small and requires very small food.

Picture of Cardinal Tetra - Paracheirodon axelrodi. Copyright www.jjphoto.dk

Paracheirodon axelrodi - Cardinal Tetra picture. Copyright www.jjphoto.dk

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