Cardinal Tetra 2cm

Cardinal Tetra (Paracheirodon axelrodi) - Brilliant Freshwater Fish 

The Cardinal Tetra, known scientifically as Paracheirodon axelrodi, is a true gem in the freshwater aquarium world. It comes from the Amazon basin. This species has won the hearts of many with its bright colours and calm nature. We're excited to explore the Cardinal Tetra's world and see why it's a top pick for tropical fish lovers. The Cardinal Tetra stands out with its red body, blue fins, and black markings. It's a small fish that adds a splash of colour to any tank. Its movement and behaviour are mesmerising, captivating anyone who watches. Whether you're new to aquariums or have been keeping fish for years, the Cardinal Tetra will enchant you.

Key Takeaways

• The Cardinal Tetra is a stunning freshwater fish known for its vibrant red body, iridescent blue fins, and striking black markings.
• Originating from the Amazon basin, this peaceful schooling fish is a popular choice for tropical aquariums.
• With its mesmerising behaviour and captivating appearance, the Cardinal Tetra is a must-have addition for both beginner and experienced aquarists.
• Renowned for its hardiness and ease of care, the Cardinal Tetra is a rewarding species to keep in a well-maintained home aquarium.
• Discover the allure of the Cardinal Tetra and learn why it has become a firm favourite among freshwater fish enthusiasts in Australia.

Introduction to the Stunning Cardinal Tetra, Paracheirodon axelrodi

Explore the magical world of the south american fish called the Cardinal Tetra, Paracheirodon axelrodi. This lively species comes from the rich waters of the Rio Negro and Orinoco River basins in South America. They live in vibrant schooling fish groups.

Natural Habitat and Distribution

The Cardinal Tetra loves slow-moving, acidic blackwater rivers and streams. These areas are full of dense vegetation and fallen leaves. They are mainly found in the Amazon Basin, from Colombia and Venezuela to Brazil. Their love for dimly-lit, tannic environments makes them perfect for the peaceful, plant-filled tanks that hobbyists love.

Physical Characteristics and Colouration

The Cardinal Tetra's most eye-catching feature is its bright, shimmering colours. Their fins and bodies glow with a stunning mix of deep red and electric blue. This creates a breathtaking sight that always amazes. These tetras are slender and streamlined, built for their schooling lifestyle.

Size and Lifespan Expectations

In aquariums, Cardinal Tetras grow up to 3-4 centimetres long. They are a great choice for nano fish fans. With good care and a clean environment, these charming south american fish can live for 3-5 years. They bring joy and wonder to their owners for many years.

Setting Up the Perfect Cardinal Tetra Aquarium

Creating the ideal home for our beloved freshwater aquarium fish, the stunning Cardinal Tetra, is crucial. As fans of tropical fish, we know how vital it is to mimic their natural habitat. This ensures their health and happiness. When setting up the perfect Cardinal Tetra aquarium, the first thing to consider is tank size. These schooling fish do best in groups. So, we suggest a tank of at least 10 gallons. But, a tank of 15 to 20 gallons is even better for a small school of 6-8 fish.

• Substrate should mimic their natural riverbed, with a mix of fine gravel and sand to create a natural, earthy look.
• Lighting should be moderate, with a combination of ambient and spotlighting to replicate their shaded forest stream environment.
• Lush, live plants are essential, providing hiding spots and oxygenating the water. Suitable options include Anubias, Java Fern, and Cryptocoryne.
• Filtration should be adequate to maintain pristine water quality, with a gentle water flow to simulate their natural habitat.
• A heater is necessary to maintain the ideal water temperature between 72-82°F (22-28°C).

By considering these key elements, you'll be well on your way to creating the perfect freshwater aquarium fish environment for your captivating Cardinal Tetras.

Proper Care and Maintenance Requirements

To keep your Cardinal Tetras happy in a freshwater tank, you need to focus on their water and food needs. Let's explore the key care steps to help these lively fish thrive.

Water Parameters and Quality

Cardinal Tetras love the soft, acidic waters of the Amazon. Aim for a water temperature of 22-26°C and a pH of 6.0-7.0. They prefer soft water. Keeping the water quality high is vital. Regular water changes and a good filter will help.

Diet and Feeding Schedule

Cardinal Tetras eat a mix of small live foods and high-quality flakes and pellets. Feed them a little bit often, so they don't get too full. This keeps them healthy and looking great.

Health Management Tips

Even though Cardinal Tetras are tough, they can get sick. Make sure the water is clean, don't overfeed, and quarantine new fish. Watch your tetras closely and fix any health issues fast.

"Providing the right environment and care for your Cardinal Tetras is crucial to their long-term health and vibrant colouration." By keeping up with the right water, food, and health care, you'll make your Cardinal Tetras happy. With some effort, these beautiful fish will add colour and life to your tank.

Breeding and Social Behaviour in Captivity

Tetras and schooling fish like the Cardinal Tetra are stunning. They show interesting social behaviour in home aquariums. These fish love to swim together in tight groups, just like they do in nature. Cardinal Tetras do best in groups of 6 to 12. This size lets them show off their colours and swimming skills. They also get along well with other calm fish, like Corydoras catfish and Rasbora. To breed Cardinal Tetras, you need the right water and environment. They like soft, acidic water with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. They also need gentle water and lots of plants. The female lays eggs in the plants, and the male fertilizes them. Watching over the fry is very important for their growth.

• Prefer to swim in tight, cohesive schools
• Ideal group size ranges from 6 to 12 individuals
• Breed in soft, acidic water with dense vegetation
• Require careful attention to fry development

"The captivating social dynamics and breeding behaviour of Cardinal Tetras make them a delightful addition to any well-planned community aquarium."

Conclusion

The Cardinal Tetra (Paracheirodon axelrodi) is a true gem in the world of freshwater aquariums. It has vibrant red colour, graceful movements, and a peaceful nature. These characins are a favourite among Australian aquarium lovers.

Keeping the right Cardinal Tetra habitat is key to their health and long life. The right environment and care let us enjoy their beauty. They add a captivating presence to our community aquariums. Whether you're new or experienced in aquariums, the Paracheirodon axelrodi is a great choice. Their stunning looks and interesting behaviours will captivate and inspire you. They make a remarkable addition to any aquarium.

FAQ

What is a Cardinal Tetra?

The Cardinal Tetra, known scientifically as Paracheirodon axelrodi, is a freshwater fish from South America. It's found in the Rio Negro and Orinoco River basins. These fish are loved for their bright red and blue colours and their peaceful nature.

Where do Cardinal Tetras come from?

Cardinal Tetras are native to the Amazon and Orinoco River basins. They live in the blackwater streams of Brazil, Colombia, and Venezuela.

How big do Cardinal Tetras get?

Cardinal Tetras can grow up to 3 inches (7.5 cm) in length. Their small size makes them perfect for small aquariums.

How long do Cardinal Tetras live?

With good care, Cardinal Tetras can live 5 to 7 years. But, they usually live for 3 to 5 years.

What are the water requirements for Cardinal Tetras?

Cardinal Tetras need soft, acidic water. The pH should be between 5.5 and 6.8. They also prefer temperatures between 72-82°F (22-28°C).

What do Cardinal Tetras eat?

In the wild, they eat small invertebrates, algae, and plants. In tanks, they need a mix of flakes, frozen foods, and live foods like brine shrimp.

Are Cardinal Tetras compatible with other fish?

Yes, they are peaceful and can live with other small fish. Good tank mates include other tetras, rasboras, and dwarf cichlids.

How do you breed Cardinal Tetras?

To breed them, you need to mimic their natural environment. This includes soft water and dense plants. The males will chase the females, and the females will lay eggs. The fry need careful care to survive.

What are the common health issues with Cardinal Tetras?

They are generally healthy but can get sick if the water is bad. Keeping the water clean and balanced is key to their health.