Can oscars live with cardinal tetras?
Verdict
No
No. Oscars and cardinal tetras should not share a tank. An adult oscar eats fish that fit in its mouth, and at 2 inches cardinal tetras do.
What to watch
- Deal breakerAn adult oscar eats fish that fit in its mouth, and at 2 inches cardinal tetras do.
What works
- Both are fine at 76–81°F.
- pH 6–7 suits both.
Water side by side
Size to scale
Care at a glance
| Oscar | Cardinal tetra | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 74–81 °F | 76–84 °F |
| pH | 6–8 | 4.6–7 |
| Adult size | 12.0 in | 2.0 in |
| Minimum tank | 75 gal | 20 gal |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive | Peaceful |
| Swims at | Middle | Middle |
| Group | Alone or in pairs | Groups of 6+ |
| Diet | Carnivore | Omnivore |
Better tank mates for oscars
Common plecoYes
Clown loachYes
Black ghost knifeYes
BichirYes
Elephant nose fishYes
Chinese algae eaterYes
Better tank mates for cardinal tetras
Questions
Can oscars live with cardinal tetras?
No. Oscars and cardinal tetras should not share a tank. An adult oscar eats fish that fit in its mouth, and at 2 inches cardinal tetras do.
What temperature suits both oscars and cardinal tetras?
76–81 °F. Oscars need 74–81 °F, cardinal tetras need 76–84 °F.
What size tank do oscars and cardinal tetras need together?
At least 75 gal, set by the oscar. Add space for each extra fish.