Can Cardinal Tetra Live With Black Skirt Tetra?
Cardinal Tetra and Black Skirt Tetra are compatible. Temperature overlap 73–81°F. Both peaceful.
Conditions: Minimum 20 gallon tank.
Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | Cardinal Tetra | Black Skirt Tetra | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 73–81°F | 70–82°F | 73–81°F ✓ |
| pH Range | 4.5–7 | 6–7.5 | 6–7 ✓ |
| Temperament | peaceful | peaceful | Both peaceful ✓ |
| Max Size | 2" | 3" | Similar ✓ |
| Min Tank Size | 10 gal | 15 gal | 20 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Omnivore | Omnivore | — |
| Care Level | intermediate | beginner | — |
Tank Requirements for Cardinal Tetra + Black Skirt Tetra
To keep Cardinal Tetra and Black Skirt Tetra together, you need at minimum a 20 gallon tank. Cardinal Tetra should be kept in a school of 6+. Black Skirt 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
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 →Black Skirt Tetra
Gymnocorymbus ternetzi
Black skirt tetras (also sold as black widow tetras) are hardy, easy-to-care-for schooling fish with a distinctive flowing black anal fin that gives them their name. They come in natural silver-and-black and various dyed/modified versions (GloFish). The natural form is the healthiest choice. They can be mild fin nippers in small groups but are generally well-behaved community fish.
Full care guide →