Can Cardinal Tetra and Green Terror Cichlid Live Together?

Cardinal Tetra and Green Terror Cichlid Compatibility Overview

Cardinal Tetra and Green Terror Cichlid are generally not recommended to be housed together. The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk. Their ranges meet only at 73–75°F, which leaves no margin for a heater drifting or a warm room. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.

Compatibility factors for Cardinal Tetra and Green Terror Cichlid
Factor	Cardinal Tetra	Green Terror Cichlid	Verdict
Temperature	73–82°F	68–75°F	⚠️ 73–75°F (narrow)
pH Range	4.5–7.0	6.5–8.0	⚠️ 6.5–7.0 (narrow)
Temperament	peaceful	aggressive	❌ Risk
Adult Size	1.5 in	11.8 in	❌ 8× difference
Min. Group	6+	1+	See below
Min. Tank Size	100 gallons (for both species)		—

Compatibility Positives

No specific synergy notes; compatibility is primarily water-parameter based.

Incompatibility Reasons

The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk.

Their ranges meet only at 73–75°F, which leaves no margin for a heater drifting or a warm room.

Their pH ranges overlap only partly, so aim for the shared band and keep it steady.

Cardinal Tetra is peaceful and Green Terror Cichlid is aggressive. Expect chasing and fin damage unless the tank is oversized, heavily planted, and watched closely.

Species Profiles

Cardinal Tetra — Paracheirodon axelrodi

Cardinal Tetra and Green Terror Cichlid compatibility — Cardinal Tetra

Brilliant red-and-blue schooling fish from the Rio Negro. Prefers soft, acidic, warm water — a natural companion for discus.

→ Full Cardinal Tetra care guide

Green Terror Cichlid — Andinoacara rivulatus

Cardinal Tetra and Green Terror Cichlid compatibility — Green Terror Cichlid

The Green Terror Cichlid is a popular choice for experienced aquarists due to its striking appearance and vibrant colors. They are known for their aggression and should be kept in a species-specific tank. Their tall, laterally compressed bodies and vivid coloration make them visually appealing but require careful handling due to their potentially aggressive…

→ Full Green Terror Cichlid care guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Cardinal Tetra live with Green Terror Cichlid?

Generally not recommended. Cardinal Tetra and Green Terror Cichlid are generally not recommended to be housed together. The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk. Their ranges meet only at 73–75°F, which leaves no margin for a heater drifting or a warm room. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.

What tank size do I need for Cardinal Tetra and Green Terror Cichlid together?

A minimum of 100 gallons is recommended for keeping Cardinal Tetra and Green Terror Cichlid together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.

What temperature suits both Cardinal Tetra and Green Terror Cichlid?

73–75°F (narrow) — inside Cardinal Tetra's 73–82°F and Green Terror Cichlid's 68–75°F.

Is a Cardinal Tetra aggressive toward a Green Terror Cichlid?

The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk.

Related Compatibility Guides

Tank Size for Cardinal Tetra and Green Terror Cichlid

Use the scenario that matches the actual group sizes and temperament you plan to keep.

Scenario	Tank	When it applies
Minimum viable	100 gal	Only for the recommended minimum groups, mature filtration, and close monitoring.
Recommended community	150 gal	Adds territory, swimming room, and a safer buffer for behavior.
Low-conflict setup	220 gal	Best when keeping larger schools or reducing territorial pressure.

📖 Cardinal Tetra Encyclopedia 📖 Green Terror Cichlid Encyclopedia 🔄 All Compatibility Guides 🛠️ Compatibility Checker Tool 📋 Fish Care Guides 💧 Water Parameter Checker