| Notes: Paracheirodon Axelrodi is one of the most popular Tetras in aquariums. Its transparent fins and its blue and brite red belly makes it very attractive to beginners as well as experienced fish keepers.
This type of tetras requires well planted tanks (at least 20 gallons) with lots of hidding places and low lighted areas. Cardinals have to be kept in schools (at least 6) and are a perfect addition to a community tank. They are often used in Discus and other more demanding fish tanks because of their peaceful attitude and the fact that they don't compete to much with these fish around feeding time. If kept alone (as opposed to in schools), Cardinal Tetras won't develop their natural colors. If kept in optimal conditions, cardinals can live as long as 7 years in captivity.
This fish is often confused with the Neon Tetra (Paracheirodon Innesi) that has the same colors but whose bottom abdomen is not fully filled with brite red.
| Breeding: Even if it is hard to tell, females are usually bigger than males. Paracheirodon Axelrodis are egglayers and they usually spawn on flat surfaces (leaves, flat rocks). This species is difficult to breed. Optimal conditions for breeding will include low light environment (evening is usually the time chosen to spawn), a temperature of approximately 75F, a Ph between 5 and 6 and a water hardness of less than 2dh. The male embraces the female and it takes approximately 24 to 36 hours for the fry to hatch. Remove all fish from the tank as soon as the female has laid her eggs. The fry will be free swimming in 3 to 5 days. Start feeding the fry with baby brine shrimps and other small foods.
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Species: Paracheirodon Axelrodi
