Can Cardinal Tetra Live With Firemouth Cichlid?
Cardinal Tetra and Firemouth Cichlid may coexist with careful monitoring, adequate space, and hiding spots.
Conditions: Minimum 30 gallon tank.
Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | Cardinal Tetra | Firemouth Cichlid | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 73–81°F | 73–86°F | 75–81°F ✓ |
| pH Range | 4.5–6.5 | 6.5–7.5 | 6.5–7 ✓ |
| Temperament | peaceful | semi-aggressive | Monitor ⚠ |
| Max Size | 2" | 6.7" | Size mismatch ✗ |
| Min Tank Size | 11 gal | 53 gal | 30 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Omnivore | Omnivore | — |
| Care Level | beginner | intermediate | — |
Tank Requirements for Cardinal Tetra + Firemouth Cichlid
To keep Cardinal Tetra and Firemouth Cichlid together, you need at minimum a 30 gallon tank. Cardinal Tetra should be kept in a school of 8+. Firemouth Cichlid 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
The Cardinal Tetra (Paracheirodon axelrodi) is a beginner freshwater species known for its blue, red coloration. Brighter color than neon tetra. Mid to Lower-Mid.
Full care guide →Firemouth Cichlid
Thorichthys meeki
The Firemouth Cichlid (Thorichthys meeki) is a intermediate freshwater species known for its gray-blue, red throat/belly coloration. Red throat display when threatened. Mid to Bottom.
Full care guide →