Can Cardinal Tetra Live With Golden Pencilfish?

Cardinal Tetra and Golden Pencilfish are compatible tank mates!

Detailed Analysis

Temperature ✓ Compatible

Good temperature overlap at 73–81°F.

pH ✓ Compatible

Good pH overlap at 5.5–7.0.

Size ✓ Compatible

Compatible sizes (2" and 1.2").

Temperament ✓ Compatible

Both fish have compatible temperaments.

Swim Level ✓ Compatible

Fish occupy different water levels (Cardinal Tetra: middle, Golden Pencilfish: top), reducing conflict.

Important Notes

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

Tank Requirements

Minimum tank size for this combination: 15 gallons

ParameterCardinal TetraGolden Pencilfish
Temperature73–84°F73–81°F
pH5–75.5–7
Max Size2"1.2"
TemperamentPeacefulPeaceful
Swim LevelMiddleTop
Min Tank10 gal10 gal

Check More Combinations

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