Can Cardinal Tetra Live With Synodontis Petricola?

Cardinal Tetra and Synodontis Petricola are NOT compatible tank mates.

Detailed Analysis

Temperature ✓ Compatible

Good temperature overlap at 75–82°F.

pH ✗ Not Compatible

No pH overlap. Cardinal Tetra needs pH 5–7, but Synodontis Petricola needs pH 7.5–8.8.

Size ✓ Compatible

Compatible sizes (2" and 4").

Temperament ✓ Compatible

Both fish have compatible temperaments.

Swim Level ✓ Compatible

Fish occupy different water levels (Cardinal Tetra: middle, Synodontis Petricola: bottom), reducing conflict.

Important Notes

  • Cardinal Tetra is a schooling fish and needs at least 6 of its kind.
  • Synodontis Petricola is a schooling fish and needs at least 3 of its kind.

Tank Requirements

Minimum tank size for this combination: 20 gallons

ParameterCardinal TetraSynodontis Petricola
Temperature73–84°F75–82°F
pH5–77.5–8.8
Max Size2"4"
TemperamentPeacefulPeaceful
Swim LevelMiddleBottom
Min Tank10 gal20 gal

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