Can Angelfish Live With Cardinal Tetra?
Angelfish and Cardinal Tetra may coexist with careful monitoring, adequate space, and hiding spots.
Conditions: Minimum 30 gallon tank.
Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | Angelfish | Cardinal Tetra | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 76–84°F | 73–81°F | 76–81°F ✓ |
| pH Range | 6–7.5 | 4.5–7 | 6–7 ✓ |
| Temperament | semi-aggressive | peaceful | Monitor ⚠ |
| Max Size | 6" | 2" | Similar ✓ |
| Min Tank Size | 30 gal | 10 gal | 30 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Omnivore | Omnivore | — |
| Care Level | intermediate | intermediate | — |
Tank Requirements for Angelfish + Cardinal Tetra
To keep Angelfish and Cardinal Tetra together, you need at minimum a 30 gallon tank. Cardinal Tetra should be kept in a school of 6+. Provide adequate filtration, stable temperature with a heater, and hiding spots to reduce stress.
Species Profiles
Angelfish
Pterophyllum scalare
Freshwater angelfish are elegant, tall-bodied cichlids that are a centerpiece in many community aquariums. They come in many color varieties including silver, marble, koi, and black. While generally peaceful, they become territorial when breeding and will eat small fish like neon tetras.
Full care guide →Cardinal Tetra
Paracheirodon axelrodi
Cardinal tetras look similar to neon tetras but have a red stripe that extends the entire length of their body (vs only the back half in neons). They prefer softer, more acidic water and are slightly more delicate, but their deeper coloration makes them highly sought after.
Full care guide →