GOLD Cardinal Tetra (Paracheirodon axelrodi) 2.5-3cm

Description

Gold Cardinal Tetra (Paracheirodon axelrodi)

Rare, captivating and highly sought after, the Gold Cardinal Tetra is a stunning colour variant of the classic Cardinal Tetra. Its shimmering golden body is beautifully complemented by the iconic electric blue stripe and rich red lower body, creating an eye-catching display that elevates any planted freshwater aquarium.

Quick Facts

  • Scientific name: Paracheirodon axelrodi
  • Common name: Gold Cardinal Tetra
  • Current size: Approximately 2.5–3 cm
  • Adult size: Approximately 4–5 cm
  • Tank size: 60L+ recommended
  • Difficulty: 🟢 Easy
  • Temperament: Peaceful schooling fish
  • Minimum school: 10+ recommended

Is this for you?

āœ”ļø Perfect if:

  • You want a rare and premium schooling fish.
  • You're creating a high-end planted or aquascaped aquarium.
  • You appreciate unique colour morphs of classic species.
  • You enjoy peaceful community fish with exceptional visual appeal.

āŒ Avoid if:

  • You only intend to keep one or two fish.
  • You keep aggressive or predatory tank mates.
  • Your aquarium is newly established or unstable.
  • You prefer larger feature fish over schooling species.

Why choose Gold Cardinal Tetras?

The Gold Cardinal Tetra is one of the most desirable colour variants available to freshwater hobbyists. Unlike the standard Cardinal Tetra, this naturally occurring xanthic form displays a beautiful golden body that enhances the famous iridescent blue stripe and vibrant red lower half.

Originating from the blackwater rivers of the Amazon Basin, Gold Cardinals thrive in mature planted aquariums with excellent water quality, subdued lighting and lush aquatic plants. Their brilliant colours become even more striking against dark substrates and natural driftwood.

When maintained in large schools, these fish create a breathtaking display of shimmering gold, blue and red as they move effortlessly through the aquarium.

Benefits

  • Rare gold colour variant of the Cardinal Tetra
  • Brilliant electric blue lateral stripe
  • Vibrant red lower body
  • Peaceful community fish
  • Outstanding for planted aquariums
  • Creates spectacular schooling displays

Care made simple

  • Temperature: 24–28°C
  • pH: 4.5–7.0
  • Diet: Quality micro pellets, crushed flakes, frozen foods and live foods
  • Water: Soft, clean, stable water with gentle filtration
  • Setup: Mature planted aquarium with driftwood, shaded areas and open swimming space
  • Keep in schools of at least 10 fish to encourage natural schooling behaviour and reduce stress.
  • Regular water changes and a varied diet help maintain their vibrant gold, blue and red colouration.

Pairs perfectly with

  • Corydoras pygmaeus
  • Glowlight Tetras
  • Green Neon Tetras
  • Honey Gouramis
  • Otocinclus
NTA Insight:
Gold Cardinal Tetras are among the most striking small schooling fish available. Their golden body reflects ambient light beautifully, while the classic blue and red markings remain unmistakable. In heavily planted aquariums with dark substrates, schools of 15 or more create an unforgettable display that quickly becomes the centrepiece of the aquarium.

FAQ

What makes a Gold Cardinal Tetra different?

Gold Cardinal Tetras are a rare xanthic colour variant of the standard Cardinal Tetra. They retain the iconic blue and red markings but display a brilliant golden body instead of the typical silver-blue background.

How many Gold Cardinal Tetras should I keep?

We recommend keeping at least 10 fish together. Larger schools exhibit more natural behaviour, greater confidence and a far more impressive visual display.

Can they live in planted aquariums?

Absolutely. Gold Cardinal Tetras thrive in mature planted aquariums with driftwood, subdued lighting and excellent water quality, closely replicating their natural Amazonian habitat.

Are they suitable for beginners?

Yes, provided they are introduced to a mature, stable aquarium. Consistent water quality is the key to keeping Gold Cardinal Tetras healthy and displaying their best colours.

How long do Gold Cardinal Tetras live?

With proper care, stable water conditions and a varied diet, Gold Cardinal Tetras commonly live between 5 and 8 years.

GOLD Cardinal Tetra (Paracheirodon axelrodi) 2.5-3cm

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$7.00


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    Description

    Gold Cardinal Tetra (Paracheirodon axelrodi)

    Rare, captivating and highly sought after, the Gold Cardinal Tetra is a stunning colour variant of the classic Cardinal Tetra. Its shimmering golden body is beautifully complemented by the iconic electric blue stripe and rich red lower body, creating an eye-catching display that elevates any planted freshwater aquarium.

    Quick Facts

    • Scientific name: Paracheirodon axelrodi
    • Common name: Gold Cardinal Tetra
    • Current size: Approximately 2.5–3 cm
    • Adult size: Approximately 4–5 cm
    • Tank size: 60L+ recommended
    • Difficulty: 🟢 Easy
    • Temperament: Peaceful schooling fish
    • Minimum school: 10+ recommended

    Is this for you?

    āœ”ļø Perfect if:

    • You want a rare and premium schooling fish.
    • You're creating a high-end planted or aquascaped aquarium.
    • You appreciate unique colour morphs of classic species.
    • You enjoy peaceful community fish with exceptional visual appeal.

    āŒ Avoid if:

    • You only intend to keep one or two fish.
    • You keep aggressive or predatory tank mates.
    • Your aquarium is newly established or unstable.
    • You prefer larger feature fish over schooling species.

    Why choose Gold Cardinal Tetras?

    The Gold Cardinal Tetra is one of the most desirable colour variants available to freshwater hobbyists. Unlike the standard Cardinal Tetra, this naturally occurring xanthic form displays a beautiful golden body that enhances the famous iridescent blue stripe and vibrant red lower half.

    Originating from the blackwater rivers of the Amazon Basin, Gold Cardinals thrive in mature planted aquariums with excellent water quality, subdued lighting and lush aquatic plants. Their brilliant colours become even more striking against dark substrates and natural driftwood.

    When maintained in large schools, these fish create a breathtaking display of shimmering gold, blue and red as they move effortlessly through the aquarium.

    Benefits

    • Rare gold colour variant of the Cardinal Tetra
    • Brilliant electric blue lateral stripe
    • Vibrant red lower body
    • Peaceful community fish
    • Outstanding for planted aquariums
    • Creates spectacular schooling displays

    Care made simple

    • Temperature: 24–28°C
    • pH: 4.5–7.0
    • Diet: Quality micro pellets, crushed flakes, frozen foods and live foods
    • Water: Soft, clean, stable water with gentle filtration
    • Setup: Mature planted aquarium with driftwood, shaded areas and open swimming space
    • Keep in schools of at least 10 fish to encourage natural schooling behaviour and reduce stress.
    • Regular water changes and a varied diet help maintain their vibrant gold, blue and red colouration.

    Pairs perfectly with

    • Corydoras pygmaeus
    • Glowlight Tetras
    • Green Neon Tetras
    • Honey Gouramis
    • Otocinclus
    NTA Insight:
    Gold Cardinal Tetras are among the most striking small schooling fish available. Their golden body reflects ambient light beautifully, while the classic blue and red markings remain unmistakable. In heavily planted aquariums with dark substrates, schools of 15 or more create an unforgettable display that quickly becomes the centrepiece of the aquarium.

    FAQ

    What makes a Gold Cardinal Tetra different?

    Gold Cardinal Tetras are a rare xanthic colour variant of the standard Cardinal Tetra. They retain the iconic blue and red markings but display a brilliant golden body instead of the typical silver-blue background.

    How many Gold Cardinal Tetras should I keep?

    We recommend keeping at least 10 fish together. Larger schools exhibit more natural behaviour, greater confidence and a far more impressive visual display.

    Can they live in planted aquariums?

    Absolutely. Gold Cardinal Tetras thrive in mature planted aquariums with driftwood, subdued lighting and excellent water quality, closely replicating their natural Amazonian habitat.

    Are they suitable for beginners?

    Yes, provided they are introduced to a mature, stable aquarium. Consistent water quality is the key to keeping Gold Cardinal Tetras healthy and displaying their best colours.

    How long do Gold Cardinal Tetras live?

    With proper care, stable water conditions and a varied diet, Gold Cardinal Tetras commonly live between 5 and 8 years.

    Live Arrival & Ordering FAQ

    Why do livestock prices sometimes change?

    Unlike manufactured products, fish and shrimp continue to grow and develop over time. Their value changes as they increase in size, develop colour, or become breeding pairs.

    Our prices are based on the current size, quality and availability of each specimen. While pricing often remains stable for around 3–4 months, it may be updated at any time to reflect these changes.

    We always aim to offer healthy, high-quality livestock at fair and competitive prices.

    Do you offer a live arrival guarantee?

    Yes. All livestock is covered by our Live Arrival Guarantee.

    In the rare event of DOA, please contact us promptly with clear photos of the livestock in the original unopened bag.

    Please review our full DOA and store policies before purchase.

    Can you ship to all states in Australia?

    No. Due to state restrictions, we cannot ship livestock or live plants to WA and TAS.

    What should I check before ordering?

    Before placing an order, make sure:

    • Your tank is fully cycled and stable
    • Your aquarium has enough space for the species
    • Your current livestock are compatible in temperament, size, and requirements
    • Your water parameters, habitat, and temperature suit the species
    • You are not adding too many fish at once
    What should I expect when my fish arrives?

    It is normal for fish, shrimp, or snails to look pale, stressed, or less active after shipping.

    This is temporary. Most livestock will settle and regain colour within a few days.

    How long does it take for fish to settle in?

    Most livestock will take 3–7 days to fully adjust to their new environment.

    Should I feed my fish immediately after arrival?

    No. We recommend waiting 24 hours before feeding to allow them to settle.

    If you already have fish in your tank, feeding them before introducing new arrivals can help reduce stress.

    Why do fish sometimes struggle after being added to a tank?

    In most cases, issues are caused by tank conditions, not shipping.

    • Uncycled or unstable tanks
    • Poor water parameters
    • Overstocking
    • Unsuitable tank mates
    What is Nano Tanks Australia’s main tip for new livestock?

    Most livestock losses happen in immature or unstable tanks, not during shipping.

    If your setup is not fully established, the risk to new arrivals is significantly higher.

    Not sure if this fish is right for your setup?

    If you are unsure whether this species suits your setup, contact us before ordering and we’ll help point you in the right direction.

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