Cardinal Tetra and Glass Catfish Compatibility Overview
Cardinal Tetra and Glass Catfish can generally share an aquarium with appropriate planning. Both species prefer overlapping temperature and pH ranges. Both species are peaceful, and neither poses a major aggression risk to the other. A minimum 20-gallon tank is recommended to provide adequate territory and water volume for both species.
| Factor | Cardinal Tetra | Glass Catfish | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 73โ82ยฐF | 68โ79ยฐF | โ 73โ79ยฐF |
| pH Range | 4.5โ7.0 | 4.0โ7.0 | โ 4.5โ7.0 |
| Temperament | peaceful | peaceful | โ Compatible |
| Adult Size | 1.5 in | 2.6 in | โ Similar |
| Min. Group | 6+ | 6+ | See below |
| Min. Tank Size | 20 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
Glass Catfish โ Kryptopterus vitreolus
The Glass Catfish, Kryptopterus vitreolus, is a popular freshwater aquarium fish known for its unique, translucent body and iridescent scales. It is a peaceful species that thrives in groups and is suitable for beginners due to its hardy nature. These catfish are bottom-dwellers and require a well-decorated tank with plenty of swimming space.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Cardinal Tetra live with Glass Catfish?
Yes, in a well-planned setup. Cardinal Tetra and Glass Catfish can generally share an aquarium with appropriate planning. Both species prefer overlapping temperature and pH ranges. Both species are peaceful, and neither poses a major aggression risk to the other. A minimum 20-gallon tank is recommended to provide adequate territory and water volume for both species.
What tank size do I need for Cardinal Tetra and Glass Catfish together?
A minimum of 20 gallons is recommended for keeping Cardinal Tetra and Glass Catfish together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.
What temperature suits both Cardinal Tetra and Glass Catfish?
73โ79ยฐF โ inside Cardinal Tetra's 73โ82ยฐF and Glass Catfish's 68โ79ยฐF.
Is a Cardinal Tetra aggressive toward a Glass Catfish?
Cardinal Tetra is peaceful and Glass Catfish is peaceful. No major aggression issues are expected between these species.
Related Compatibility Guides
Tank Size for Cardinal Tetra and Glass Catfish
Use the scenario that matches the actual group sizes and temperament you plan to keep.
| Scenario | Tank | When it applies |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum viable | 21 gal | Only for the recommended minimum groups, mature filtration, and close monitoring. |
| Recommended community | 29 gal | Adds territory, swimming room, and a safer buffer for behavior. |
| Low-conflict setup | 55 gal | Best when keeping larger schools or reducing territorial pressure. |