Cardinal Tetra

Like the neon but the red stripe runs the full length of the body. A blackwater jewel that schools beautifully in soft, warm water.

Min tank size

60 L

Temperature

24–28 °C

pH

5.5–7

Hardness

1–8 dGH

Group size

6+ (ideally 12)

Diet

Omnivore — fine flakes, micro pellets, frozen daphnia

Lifespan

4–5 years

Adult size

4 cm

Best in mature, softer water with tannins (catappa leaves or driftwood). Keep warm — cardinals prefer 25 °C and up — and in the largest school you can house.