Cardinal Tetra and Flame Angelfish Compatibility Overview
Cardinal Tetra and Flame Angelfish are generally not recommended to be housed together. One of these is a marine species and the other is not; they cannot share one aquarium. Their pH ranges do not meet: Cardinal Tetra wants 4.5โ7.0 and Flame Angelfish wants 8.1โ8.4. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.
| Factor | Cardinal Tetra | Flame Angelfish | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 73โ82ยฐF | 72โ82ยฐF | โ 73โ82ยฐF |
| pH Range | 4.5โ7.0 | 8.1โ8.4 | โ No overlap |
| Temperament | peaceful | semi | โ ๏ธ Monitor |
| Adult Size | 1.5 in | 4.0 in | โ ๏ธ 2.7ร difference |
| Min. Group | 6+ | 1+ | See below |
| Min. Tank Size | 55 gallons (for both species) | โ | |
Compatibility Positives
Incompatibility Reasons
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
Flame Angelfish โ Centropyge loricula
The Flame Angelfish is a popular choice for saltwater aquariums due to its vibrant coloration and peaceful nature. It requires a spacious tank with plenty of swimming space and a stable water environment. With proper care, it can thrive in a community tank with compatible species.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Cardinal Tetra live with Flame Angelfish?
Generally not recommended. Cardinal Tetra and Flame Angelfish are generally not recommended to be housed together. One of these is a marine species and the other is not; they cannot share one aquarium. Their pH ranges do not meet: Cardinal Tetra wants 4.5โ7.0 and Flame Angelfish wants 8.1โ8.4. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.
What tank size do I need for Cardinal Tetra and Flame Angelfish together?
A minimum of 55 gallons is recommended for keeping Cardinal Tetra and Flame Angelfish together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.
What temperature suits both Cardinal Tetra and Flame Angelfish?
73โ82ยฐF โ inside Cardinal Tetra's 73โ82ยฐF and Flame Angelfish's 72โ82ยฐF.
Is a Cardinal Tetra aggressive toward a Flame Angelfish?
Cardinal Tetra is peaceful and Flame Angelfish is semi. No major aggression issues are expected between these species.
Related Compatibility Guides
Tank Size for Cardinal Tetra and Flame Angelfish
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. |