Cardinal Tetra and Dwarf Gourami Compatibility Overview
Cardinal Tetra and Dwarf Gourami can generally share an aquarium with appropriate planning. Both species prefer overlapping temperature and pH ranges. Cardinal Tetra is peaceful and Dwarf Gourami is semi, so give them room and cover rather than assuming they will ignore each other. A minimum 55-gallon tank is recommended to provide adequate territory and water volume for both species.
| Factor | Cardinal Tetra | Dwarf Gourami | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 73โ82ยฐF | 72โ82ยฐF | โ 73โ82ยฐF |
| pH Range | 4.5โ7.0 | 6.0โ7.5 | โ 6.0โ7.0 |
| Temperament | peaceful | semi | โ ๏ธ Monitor |
| Adult Size | 1.5 in | 3.5 in | โ ๏ธ 2.3ร difference |
| Min. Group | 6+ | 1+ | See below |
| Min. Tank Size | 55 gallons (for both species) | โ | |
Compatibility Positives
Caution Points
Species Profiles
Cardinal Tetra โ Paracheirodon axelrodi
Brilliant red-and-blue schooling fish from the Rio Negro. Prefers soft, acidic, warm water โ a natural companion for discus.
โ Full Cardinal Tetra care guide
Dwarf Gourami โ Trichogaster lalius
Colourful labyrinth fish that is generally peaceful but can be territorial toward similar species. Susceptible to Dwarf Gourami Iridovirus.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Cardinal Tetra live with Dwarf Gourami?
Yes, in a well-planned setup. Cardinal Tetra and Dwarf Gourami can generally share an aquarium with appropriate planning. Both species prefer overlapping temperature and pH ranges. Cardinal Tetra is peaceful and Dwarf Gourami is semi, so give them room and cover rather than assuming they will ignore each other. A minimum 55-gallon tank is recommended to provide adequate territory and water volume for both species.
What tank size do I need for Cardinal Tetra and Dwarf Gourami together?
A minimum of 55 gallons is recommended for keeping Cardinal Tetra and Dwarf Gourami together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.
What temperature suits both Cardinal Tetra and Dwarf Gourami?
73โ82ยฐF โ inside Cardinal Tetra's 73โ82ยฐF and Dwarf Gourami's 72โ82ยฐF.
Is a Cardinal Tetra aggressive toward a Dwarf Gourami?
Cardinal Tetra is peaceful and Dwarf Gourami is semi. No major aggression issues are expected between these species.
Related Compatibility Guides
Tank Size for Cardinal Tetra and Dwarf Gourami
Use the scenario that matches the actual group sizes and temperament you plan to keep.
| Scenario | Tank | When it applies |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum viable | 55 gal | Only for the recommended minimum groups, mature filtration, and close monitoring. |
| Recommended community | 75 gal | Adds territory, swimming room, and a safer buffer for behavior. |
| Low-conflict setup | 125 gal | Best when keeping larger schools or reducing territorial pressure. |