Can Harlequin Rasbora Live With Cardinal Tetra?
Harlequin Rasbora and Cardinal Tetra are compatible. Temperature overlap 73–81°F. Both peaceful.
Conditions: Minimum 20 gallon tank.
Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | Harlequin Rasbora | Cardinal Tetra | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 73–82°F | 73–81°F | 73–81°F ✓ |
| pH Range | 6–7.5 | 4.5–7 | 6–7 ✓ |
| Temperament | peaceful | peaceful | Both peaceful ✓ |
| Max Size | 2" | 2" | Similar ✓ |
| Min Tank Size | 10 gal | 10 gal | 20 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Omnivore | Omnivore | — |
| Care Level | beginner | intermediate | — |
Tank Requirements for Harlequin Rasbora + Cardinal Tetra
To keep Harlequin Rasbora and Cardinal Tetra together, you need at minimum a 20 gallon tank. Harlequin Rasbora should be kept in a school of 6+. 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
Harlequin Rasbora
Trigonostigma heteromorpha
Harlequin rasboras are elegant, copper-colored schooling fish with a distinctive black triangular patch on their body. They are one of the most peaceful and hardy community fish available, making them ideal for beginners. In schools of 8+, they display beautiful coordinated swimming behavior.
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 →