Photo any DOA in the sealed bag on the day of delivery. Approved claims are resolved with store credit, refund, or replacement at Razz Aquatics' discretion. See policy →
Quarantined livestock • Professionally packed • Insulated with weather protection
100+ AquariumsQuarantined Before ShippingFamily-Owned
Care Level
Beginner–Intermediate
Temperature
75–82°F
pH Range
5.0–7.0
Min. Tank
20 gallons
Cardinal TetraFrom $17.99
Species Profile
Cardinal Tetra
Paracheirodon axelrodi
Why We Love This Fish
Verified shrimp-safe species
Quarantined before shipping
Stunning in planted tanks
Peaceful community fish
Cardinal Tetras (Paracheirodon axelrodi) resemble Neon Tetras but carry red coloration nearly the full length of the lower body. In a proper group, the blue and red stripes create one of the most recognizable freshwater displays.
They prefer warm, stable, softer water and a mature aquarium.
Care Notes
Keep Cardinals in warm, stable water and avoid adding them to a new or unstable aquarium. Feed a varied diet of small foods.
Keep at least 10. Their color and confidence are best in a mature planted setup.
Quick Care Facts
Care Level
Beginner–Intermediate
Temperature
75–82°F
pH Range
5.0–7.0
Min. Tank
20 gallons
Diet
Small pellets, flake food, micro worms, frozen daphnia
Adult Size
~1.5–2 in
What’s Included
Quarantined fish
Insulated + weather pack
Overnight required
Species Spotlight
Why We Love This Fish
01
Full-Length Red Color
The extended red stripe makes Cardinals visually distinct from Neon Tetras.
02
Excellent for Warm Planted Tanks
They thrive in warm, stable community aquariums with plant cover.
03
Generally Adult-Shrimp Compatible
Adult shrimp are usually ignored, though shrimplets may still be at risk.
Community Tank
Compatible Tank Mates
These nano fish coexist well with shrimp and other peaceful invertebrates.
Fish ship via Overnight service to minimize stress and maximize live arrival success. Livestock ships Monday through Wednesday. Choose your preferred delivery date at checkout.
1
Choose Delivery Date
Select your preferred delivery date at checkout. Livestock delivers Wednesday through Thursday.
2
Quarantined & Health Checked
Every animal is imported, quarantined on-site, and health-checked before it ships.
3
Packed for the Weather
Insulated box with heat or cold pack matched to your local weather forecast.
4
Live Arrival Guaranteed
100% Live Arrival Guarantee on every order. Photo any DOA in the sealed bag on the day of delivery and submit a claim through the Start a Claim page. Approved claims are resolved with store credit, refund, or replacement at Razz Aquatics' discretion.See policy →
Fish orders require Overnight. Free Overnight at $200+. Shrimp & livestock: Free 2-Day at $120+.
Why Order From Razz Aquatics
Quarantined Before Every Shipment
Every animal we sell is imported from trusted suppliers, quarantined in our dedicated facility, and health-checked before it ships. We run over 100 aquariums on-site — each focused on a specific species or color morph.
This is a family-owned operation. We pack every order ourselves and stand behind it with a 100% Live Arrival Guarantee. No drop-shipping. No middlemen.
100+
Dedicated quarantine & holding aquariums on-site
48+
States served with live livestock delivery
4.9★
Average customer rating across all verified reviews
100%
Live Arrival Guarantee — backed without fine print
Quarantined Before ShippingFamily-Owned & Operated
Common Questions
Cardinal Tetra FAQ
What is the difference between Cardinal and Neon Tetras?+
Cardinals have red coloration extending nearly the full length of the lower body, while Neon Tetras have red mainly on the rear half. Cardinals also prefer warmer water.
What tank size do Cardinal Tetras need?+
We recommend a mature 20-gallon or larger aquarium.
What do Cardinal Tetras eat?+
Feed small pellets, quality flake, frozen daphnia, microworms, and other appropriately sized foods.
Is there a live arrival guarantee?+
Yes. Every order is covered by our Live Arrival Guarantee. Photograph any DOA in the sealed bag on delivery day and submit a claim through the Start a Claim page.
How many Cardinal Tetras should I keep?+
We recommend at least 10. Larger groups create a stronger schooling display.
Are Cardinal Tetras safe with shrimp?+
Generally safe with adult shrimp; very small shrimplets may still be eaten.
How are Cardinal Tetras shipped?+
Fish ship Monday through Wednesday via Overnight / Next Day Air and typically arrive Tuesday through Thursday in insulated packaging with weather-appropriate protection.
Live plants give nano fish cover, reduce stress, and create a more natural aquarium. They help break up sightlines, provide shelter for shy fish, and support a healthier planted tank.
Shrimp Safe
Shrimp Safe
Shrimp Safe
Shrimp Safe
Shrimp Safe
