Can Cardinal Tetra Live With Rummy Nose Tetra?
Cardinal Tetra and Rummy Nose Tetra are compatible. Temperature overlap 75–81°F. Both peaceful.
Conditions: Minimum 20 gallon tank.
Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | Cardinal Tetra | Rummy Nose Tetra | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 73–81°F | 75–84°F | 75–81°F ✓ |
| pH Range | 4.5–7 | 5.5–7 | 5.5–7 ✓ |
| Temperament | peaceful | peaceful | Both peaceful ✓ |
| Max Size | 2" | 2.5" | Similar ✓ |
| Min Tank Size | 10 gal | 20 gal | 20 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Omnivore | Omnivore | — |
| Care Level | intermediate | intermediate | — |
Tank Requirements for Cardinal Tetra + Rummy Nose Tetra
To keep Cardinal Tetra and Rummy Nose Tetra together, you need at minimum a 20 gallon tank. Cardinal Tetra should be kept in a school of 6+. Rummy Nose Tetra should be kept in a school of 8+. 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 →Rummy Nose Tetra
Hemigrammus rhodostomus
Rummy nose tetras are considered the ultimate schooling fish in the freshwater hobby. Their tight, synchronized formations are unmatched by any other tetra species. The vivid red nose serves as a health indicator — bright red means healthy, pale red means stressed. They prefer soft, acidic water and are slightly more demanding than neon tetras.
Full care guide →