Description
Jumbo Cardinal Tetra (Paracheirodon axelrodi – Large Variant)
📌 Basic Info
Scientific Name: Paracheirodon axelrodi (selectively bred large strain)
Common Name: Jumbo Cardinal Tetra
Size: ~2.2 inches (5.5 cm)
Lifespan: 6 – 8 years
Tank Zone: Middle swimmers
🌊 Water Parameters
TDS: 50 – 120 ppm
pH: 4.5 – 6.5
Temperature: 24°C – 28°C (75°F – 82°F)
Water Type: Soft, acidic (blackwater preferred)
🐟 Characteristics
Full-length neon blue stripe with bright red belly (unlike neon tetra’s half-red)
Jumbo strain grows bigger and shows stronger colors
Peaceful schooling fish, looks stunning in large groups
🍽️ Food
Type: Omnivorous
Diet: Micro-pellets, flakes, frozen/live foods (bloodworms, daphnia, mosquito larvae)
Feeding Frequency: 1–2 times daily
🛠️ Maintenance
Weekly water change: 20–25%
Best in planted aquariums with soft water
Avoid sudden changes – sensitive to unstable water
👥 Social Behavior
Minimum Group Size: 10+ (looks spectacular in 20–30 shoals)
Tank Mates: Peaceful fish – rasboras, discus, dwarf cichlids, corydoras
Avoid: Aggressive or fin-nippers
✅ Do’s
Provide soft, acidic water for best health
Keep in big shoals for schooling display
Use driftwood + plants for natural look
❌ Don’ts
Don’t keep in hard, alkaline water
Don’t keep in very small groups
Don’t mix with aggressive species
⭐ Quick Tips
The king of schooling tetras – brilliant colors, especially when kept in large groups
