Can Balloon Molly Live With Cardinal Tetra?

Balloon Molly and Cardinal Tetra CAN coexist, but with some risks. Careful setup and monitoring required.

Detailed Analysis

Temperature ✓ Compatible

Good temperature overlap at 73–82°F.

pH ⚠ Use Caution

Very narrow pH overlap (7.0–7.0). Hard to maintain precisely.

Size ✓ Compatible

Compatible sizes (3" and 2").

Temperament ✓ Compatible

Both fish have compatible temperaments.

Swim Level ✓ Compatible

Swim level compatibility is fine.

Important Notes

  • Cardinal Tetra is a schooling fish and needs at least 6 of its kind.

Tank Requirements

Minimum tank size for this combination: 25 gallons

ParameterBalloon MollyCardinal Tetra
Temperature72–82°F73–84°F
pH7–8.55–7
Max Size3"2"
TemperamentPeacefulPeaceful
Swim LevelMiddleMiddle
Min Tank20 gal10 gal

Check More Combinations

Use our compatibility checker to add more fish and plan your complete tank.