Can Platy Live With Cardinal Tetra?
Platy and Cardinal Tetra are compatible. Temperature overlap 73–80°F. Both peaceful.
Conditions: Minimum 20 gallon tank.
Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | Platy | Cardinal Tetra | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 68–79°F | 73–81°F | 73–80°F ✓ |
| pH Range | 7–8 | 4.5–6.5 | 7–7 ✓ |
| Temperament | peaceful | peaceful | Both peaceful ✓ |
| Max Size | 2.8" | 2" | Similar ✓ |
| Min Tank Size | 11 gal | 11 gal | 20 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Omnivore | Omnivore | — |
| Care Level | beginner | beginner | — |
Tank Requirements for Platy + Cardinal Tetra
To keep Platy and Cardinal Tetra together, you need at minimum a 20 gallon tank. Platy should be kept in a school of 4+. Cardinal 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
Platy
Xiphophorus maculatus
The Platy (Xiphophorus maculatus) is a beginner freshwater species known for its orange-red (many color variants) coloration. Many color varieties. Mid to Top.
Full care guide →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 →