Cardinal Tetra (Paracheirodon axelrodi)
Cardinal Tetra – (Paracheirodon axelrodi) Quick Stats Minimum Tank Size: 20 Gallons (75 Liters) Care Level: Easy Water Conditions: PH 4.5-7.0 and Soft Temperature: 75-84°F (24-29 °C) Maximum Size: 2 inches (5 cm) The cardinal tetra (Paracheirodon axelrodi) is a small, beautiful fresh water fish. It closely resembles the neon tetra, and is often mistaken for this more common fish. Cardinal tetras are native to Brazil and Venezuela, and are found in the upper Orinoco and Negro rivers. Most cardinal tetras available in fish stores are wild-caught, though more captive-bred ones have become available in recent years. However, unlike many other fish, the cardinal tetra fishery is believed to be sustainable and this species is not currently threatened in the wild. A good way to tell if the fish are wild-caught, is to inspect them for fin damage caused by the nets used to catch them. Cardinal tetras primarily inhabits small, heavily shaded streams and the waters