Neon Tetras as well as Cardinal Tetras
Incorporating a colorful fish into your tank can make it pop and stand out. The tank can become the center point of attention. However, adding more than just a few new fish may not be bold enough for you. Adding a whole school of fish to your tank may give it the look you want. The brightly colored, small-sized fish in your aquarium can make you stand out from the crowd. A school of Cardinal or Neon Tetras could be your next perfect addition to your aquarium.
The Tetra Family
If you are looking to add a dash of color to your tank, there are two favorite fish, both from the Tetra family, that can give you that popping hue. Two popular options that you can incorporate into your tank are the Neon Tetra and Cardinal Tetra.
The fish are similar in nature and require similar tank conditions. Both the Cardinal and Neon Tetra are schooling fish. Schooling fish need more than just a handful of buddies by their side. To feel safe and live happily, you’ll need to invest in the proper number of fish for your tank. You can have 6 fish, but it’s best to add more fish in the next few weeks. Tetras should be able to adapt to the environment and follow the rules. Both the Cardinal Tetras and Neon Tetras love plants. The tank they are housed in should ideally have plant coverage in which they can use to hide.
There are differences between the Neon and Cardinal Tetras, aside from the two essential starter requirements of sufficient numbers of fish and plants. Here, we have highlighted details about each Tetra that can help you decide what best suits your aquarium needs.
Paracheirodon axelrodi Cardinal Tetra
This Tetra’s full name is the Paracheirodon axelrodi Tetra. However, they can be referred to simply as the Cardinal Tetra. Although the Cardinal Tetra is usually wild-caught, you can also find them captive-raised. These fish are harder to raise in an aquarium setting and the retail price is reflected in this element.
The Cardinal Tetras are larger than the Neon Tetras. They have a blue/red stripe that runs from their head to their tail. They are visually more appealing than the other Tetras due to their unique appearance. Be careful! Both fish look very similar from a distance and can be difficult to distinguish.
People with good ethics will not hesitate to buy wild fish from stores. The common price of a fish is usually between $3-$4 in most shops. Many stores would prefer to stock captive-raised salmon but due to their cost, source and difficulty raising them, many do not stock them.
You must also take responsibility for stocking fish with enough to make a school. It is important to respect the fish’s natural behavior and to provide safety for them in sufficient numbers.
Neon Tetra
In several ways, the Neon Tetra is different than the Cardinal Tetra, but they both have the similar appearance. The Neon Tetra measures smaller than the Cardinal Tetra. Additionally, the Neon Tetra’s body is not covered in blue and red. Neon Tetras tend to have a blue head, and a slender tail. Although their colors aren’t as vivid as those of the Cardinal Tetras, they are striking nonetheless.
The majority of Neon Tetras are also raised in captivity. Because they are not wild-sourced, this makes them more accessible. Because of this, their price is lower than that of the Cardinal Tetra. Neon Tetras will be most commonly sold for $1-$2 per fish.
It’s your choice
The decision about which fish school you add to your tank is ultimately up to you. Both Tetras will make an excellent addition to an aquarium. The Neon Tetra will save you money. The vibrantly colored Cardinal Tetras may appeal to you and you might be open to considering a lower price. You can be certain that they will add color to your tank, no matter what you choose. Both the Cardinal and Neon Tetras require a school setting and plenty of plant cover. This will ensure that they will live happily in your aquarium!