Angelfish and Cardinal Tetra Compatibility
Angelfish and Cardinal Tetra are not recommended: temperature ranges overlap at 76–82°F, and the behavioural or size conflict is not solved by adding space. Plan on at least 30 gallons. Individual fish vary — observe behaviour during introduction.
Angelfish vs Cardinal Tetra at a glance
| Aspect | Angelfish | Cardinal Tetra |
|---|---|---|
| Adult size | ~6 in | ~2 in |
| Minimum tank | 30 gal | 20 gal |
| Temperature | 76–84°F | 73–82°F |
| pH | 6–7.5 | 5–7 |
| Temperament | semi-aggressive | peaceful |
| Swimming zone | middle | middle |
| Group size | 2+ | 6+ |
| Care level | moderate | moderate |
Overlap in temperature: 76–82°F. Overlap in pH: 6–7.
Why this verdict
- Temperature: Shared range of 76–82°F.
- Water parameters: Shared pH range of 6–7.
- Temperament: Angelfish can be territorial; provide plants, sight breaks, and space.
- Adult size: Angelfish grows to ~6" and may see Cardinal Tetra (~2") as food.
- Swimming zone: Both are middle-dwelling, but peaceful — sharing the layer is fine with cover.
- Schooling: Group sizes matter: Angelfish: keep at least 2; Cardinal Tetra: keep at least 6.
- Tank size: Plan for at least 30 gallons to satisfy both species.
Main risks
- Occasional chasing or fin nipping is possible.
- Predation risk as the larger species matures.
Recommended tank
Plan on 30 gallons or larger for this pair. Suitable sizes: 30 gallon, 40 gallon Breeder, 40 gallon Long.
Group sizes: Angelfish: keep at least 2; Cardinal Tetra: keep at least 6.
Sources
- FishBase — Scientific Database · Primary / scientific · https://www.fishbase.se/
- SeriouslyFish — Specialist Publication · High authority · https://www.seriouslyfish.com/
- Aquarium Forge editorial guidelines — Editorial Interpretation · Editorial interpretation
- FishBase — Scientific Database · Primary / scientific · https://www.fishbase.se/
- SeriouslyFish — Specialist Publication · High authority · https://www.seriouslyfish.com/
- Aquarium Forge editorial guidelines — Editorial Interpretation · Editorial interpretation
- Aquarium Forge editorial guidelines — Editorial Interpretation · Editorial interpretation
Compatibility verdicts are planning guidance, not guarantees — individual fish vary. Rule version 1.1 · Data reviewed: .
Frequently asked questions
Can Angelfish and Cardinal Tetra live together?
Our verdict is “Not Recommended”. Angelfish and Cardinal Tetra are not recommended: temperature ranges overlap at 76–82°F, and the behavioural or size conflict is not solved by adding space. Plan on at least 30 gallons. Individual fish vary — observe behaviour during introduction.
What tank size do Angelfish and Cardinal Tetra need?
Plan for at least 30 gallons so both species have their minimum space — Angelfish needs 30+ gal and Cardinal Tetra needs 20+ gal. Adding length and cover reduces stress further.
What temperature do Angelfish and Cardinal Tetra share?
Their comfortable ranges overlap at 76–82°F. Hold the tank near the middle of that band and avoid the extremes of either species' range.
What are the main risks keeping Angelfish with Cardinal Tetra?
Occasional chasing or fin nipping is possible. Predation risk as the larger species matures.
How many Angelfish and Cardinal Tetra should I keep?
Angelfish: keep at least 2; Cardinal Tetra: keep at least 6. Group sizes matter for shoaling fish — too few and they become stressed and nippy.
Canonical https://aquariumforge.com/compatibility/angelfish/cardinal-tetra/