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| Paracheirodon axelrodi (Cardinal Tetra) |
| Family: |
Characidae |
| Maximum Size: |
1.0" (2.5cm) |
| Distribution: |
Upper Rio Orinoco and Rio Negro of South America |
| Temperature Range: |
74-81oF (23-27oC) |
| pH Range: |
5 to 6 |
| Water Hardness: |
5 to 12 dH |
 In the wild, Paracheirodon axelrodi occurs in shools in the middle water layers, where it feeds on worms and small crustaceans. In captivity, these fish will readily accept flake foods provided they are small enough. Breeding in captivity is difficult, so most specimens in the aquarium trade are wild-caught in the tributaries of the Rio Negro and Orinoco. P. axelrodi is very peaceful and should be kept with tankmates of a similar size and nature. This highly sociable fish should be kept in large schools of 10-20 or more. The proper environment for these fish includes diffuse light, ample plantings, some open space, and soft, acidic water. Paracheirodon axelrodi is often confused with the more commonly available Paracheirodon innesi (the Neon Tetra). They can be distinguished by the lack of red in the pectoral area of P. innesi. |
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