Albino cardinal tetra 2.5cm

The Albino Cardinal Tetra (Paracheirodon axelrodi – albino morph) is a rare and eye-catching freshwater fish known for its unique pastel appearance and gentle schooling behavior. At 2.5cm, these juvenile fish already display the species’ iconic full-body iridescent blue stripe, contrasted by a muted pink-red glow that replaces the bold crimson of wild types. Their albino pigmentation gives them an ethereal, almost glowing quality, making them a striking yet peaceful addition to planted or blackwater aquariums.

Native to the clear and blackwater streams of the Amazon Basin, the Albino Cardinal Tetra prefers soft, acidic, and warm water, thriving in natural, well-maintained setups with plant cover and calm tank mates.

🐠 Key Features:

• Scientific Name: Paracheirodon axelrodi (Albino morph)

• Common Name: Albino Cardinal Tetra

• Size: 2.5cm (juvenile; adults reach up to 5cm)

• Lifespan: 3–5 years

• Temperament: Peaceful, shy, schooling

• Difficulty Level: Moderate

• Origin: Amazon River Basin, South America

• Best kept in groups of 6–10 or more

🌊 Water Conditions

Albino Cardinal Tetras require clean, soft, and slightly acidic water with minimal fluctuations.

• Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)

• pH: 4.5–6.5

• Hardness: 1–6 dGH

• Tank Size: Minimum 15–20 gallons

• Water Type: Freshwater (blackwater preferred)

• Filtration: Gentle flow with excellent water quality

• Lighting: Low to moderate; dim lighting enhances their pale glow

Tanks should mimic natural Amazonian conditions with leaf litter, driftwood, floating plants, and subdued lighting.

🐟 Tank Mates

Due to their small size and gentle temperament, Albino Cardinals do best with non-aggressive, calm species.

Ideal tank mates:

• Other small peaceful tetras (Neon, Ember, Glowlight)

• Rasboras (Chili, Harlequin)

• Otocinclus catfish

• Corydoras catfish

• Dwarf shrimp (with caution)

• Peaceful dwarf gouramis

Avoid:

• Boisterous or fin-nipping species

• Larger or aggressive fish

Keep them in groups of 6 or more—larger schools reduce stress and display natural schooling behavior.

🍽️ Feeding Habits

Albino Cardinal Tetras are omnivores and appreciate a varied, high-quality diet.

Feeding recommendations:

• Fine flakes or micro pellets

• Live/frozen foods: baby brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms

• Freeze-dried alternatives like tubifex

• Spirulina or veggie flakes for variety

Feed 1–2 times daily in small portions they can consume within a few minutes.

🧼 Care and Maintenance

• Perform regular water changes (20–30% weekly)

• Use a soft water source or RO water if needed

• Maintain stable conditions—these fish are sensitive to fluctuations

• Provide dense plants and gentle flow for security

• Avoid harsh lighting to protect sensitive albino eyes

Due to their albino traits, they may be slightly more sensitive than standard Cardinal Tetras.

🌿 Why Choose the Albino Cardinal Tetra?

The Albino Cardinal Tetra offers a rare and elegant twist on one of the aquarium world’s most beloved schooling fish. Its soft pink-white tones, peaceful nature, and glowing full-length stripe make it a sophisticated centerpiece in planted or Amazon-style tanks.

Elevate your aquarium with the delicate beauty of Albino Cardinal Tetras—order yours today!