Cardinal Tetra and Silver Arowana Compatibility Overview
Cardinal Tetra and Silver Arowana are generally not recommended to be housed together. The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk. Cardinal Tetra is peaceful and Silver Arowana is aggressive. Expect chasing and fin damage unless the tank is oversized, heavily planted, and watched closely. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.
| Factor | Cardinal Tetra | Silver Arowana | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 73โ82ยฐF | 68โ86ยฐF | โ 73โ82ยฐF |
| pH Range | 4.5โ7.0 | 5.0โ7.5 | โ 5.0โ7.0 |
| Temperament | peaceful | aggressive | โ Risk |
| Adult Size | 1.5 in | 31.5 in | โ 21ร difference |
| Min. Group | 6+ | 1+ | See below |
| Min. Tank Size | 100 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
Silver Arowana โ Osteoglossum bicirrhosum
The Silver Arowana is a majestic and unique fish known for its striking appearance and size. It is a large, predatory fish that requires a spacious tank and specific water conditions. While not a community fish, it can be kept with compatible, larger species. They are sensitive to stress and require careful water quality management.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Cardinal Tetra live with Silver Arowana?
Generally not recommended. Cardinal Tetra and Silver Arowana are generally not recommended to be housed together. The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk. Cardinal Tetra is peaceful and Silver Arowana is aggressive. Expect chasing and fin damage unless the tank is oversized, heavily planted, and watched closely. Review the behavior and water details before deciding whether to attempt the pairing.
What tank size do I need for Cardinal Tetra and Silver Arowana together?
A minimum of 100 gallons is recommended for keeping Cardinal Tetra and Silver Arowana together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.
What temperature suits both Cardinal Tetra and Silver Arowana?
73โ82ยฐF โ inside Cardinal Tetra's 73โ82ยฐF and Silver Arowana's 68โ86ยฐF.
Is a Cardinal Tetra aggressive toward a Silver Arowana?
The adult size gap creates a meaningful predation risk.
Related Compatibility Guides
Tank Size for Cardinal Tetra and Silver Arowana
Use the scenario that matches the actual group sizes and temperament you plan to keep.
| Scenario | Tank | When it applies |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum viable | 250 gal | Only for the recommended minimum groups, mature filtration, and close monitoring. |
| Recommended community | 350 gal | Adds territory, swimming room, and a safer buffer for behavior. |
| Low-conflict setup | 450 gal | Best when keeping larger schools or reducing territorial pressure. |