Compatibility
Ram × Cardinal Tetra Compatibility
Compatibility calculated based on predation risk, behaviour profile, and water-parameter overlap.
Ram and Cardinal Tetra can live together in a well-planted community tank, but territorial behaviour should be monitored, size difference should be monitored, and water-parameter overlap should be checked carefully.
TemperatureC
pHA
HardnessA
FlowA
PredationB
BehaviourB
Compatible with cautionB
Envrionmental Factors
Temperature overlap
Ram: 26.0–30.0 °C
Cardinal Tetra: 23.0–27.0 °C
Shared window: 26.0–27.0°C.
pH overlap
Ram: 5.5–7.0
Cardinal Tetra: 5.0–7.0
Shared window: 5.5–7.0.
Hardness overlap
Ram: Very soft → Soft
Cardinal Tetra: Very soft → Soft
Shared hardness bands: 2 (overlap ratio 100%).
Flow match
Ram: Low
Cardinal Tetra: Low
Flow preferences do not conflict directly (no low-vs-high clash).
Behavioural Factors
Predation risk (size ratio)
Adult size ratio: 2.00x
Size gap is between 2.0x and 3.0x, so monitor for dominance and mouth-fit risk.
Behaviour risk
- - Ram: Territorial.
- - At least one species can be pushy or fin-nippy; monitor closely.
- - Behaviour may vary by tank size and stocking; have a backup plan.
Parameter snapshot
| Parameter | Ram | Cardinal Tetra |
|---|---|---|
| Adult size | 7.0 cm | 3.5 cm |
| Temperature | 26.0–30.0 °C | 23.0–27.0 °C |
| pH | 5.5–7.0 | 5.0–7.0 |
| Hardness | Very soft → Soft | Very soft → Soft |
| Flow | Low | Low |
| Locations | South America | South America |
Geographic overlap (supporting signal)
Shared: South America
Best tank mates for Cardinal Tetra
Reference links to curated compatibility pair pages for this species.
Chili Rasbora
Boraras brigittae
Corydoras
Corydoras spp.
Dwarf Rasbora
Boraras maculatus
Ember Tetra
Hyphessobrycon amandae