Cardinal Tetra and Percula Clownfish Compatibility Overview
Cardinal Tetra and Percula Clownfish 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 Percula Clownfish wants 8.1โ8.4. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.
| Factor | Cardinal Tetra | Percula Clownfish | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 73โ82ยฐF | 74โ82ยฐF | โ 74โ82ยฐF |
| pH Range | 4.5โ7.0 | 8.1โ8.4 | โ No overlap |
| Temperament | peaceful | semi | โ ๏ธ Monitor |
| Adult Size | 1.5 in | 3.0 in | โ ๏ธ 2.0ร difference |
| Min. Group | 6+ | 2+ | See below |
| Min. Tank Size | 20 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
Percula Clownfish โ Amphiprion percula
The Percula Clownfish, also known as the False Percula, is a popular beginner fish due to its hardiness and striking coloration. These fish are best kept in a saltwater tank with a minimum size of 30 gallons and compatible tankmates. They are peaceful, non-aggressive and do well in groups with other compatible species.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Cardinal Tetra live with Percula Clownfish?
Generally not recommended. Cardinal Tetra and Percula Clownfish 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 Percula Clownfish 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 Percula Clownfish together?
A minimum of 20 gallons is recommended for keeping Cardinal Tetra and Percula Clownfish together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.
What temperature suits both Cardinal Tetra and Percula Clownfish?
74โ82ยฐF โ inside Cardinal Tetra's 73โ82ยฐF and Percula Clownfish's 74โ82ยฐF.
Is a Cardinal Tetra aggressive toward a Percula Clownfish?
Cardinal Tetra is peaceful and Percula Clownfish is semi. No major aggression issues are expected between these species.
Related Compatibility Guides
Tank Size for Cardinal Tetra and Percula Clownfish
Use the scenario that matches the actual group sizes and temperament you plan to keep.
| Scenario | Tank | When it applies |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum viable | 20 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. |