Can Blood Parrot Cichlid live with Cardinal Tetra?
Case-by-case. Watch group sizes, tank size, and feeding zones.
Why Blood Parrot Cichlid and Cardinal Tetra Don't Make an Easy Pair
They can coexist, but you need to manage the setup carefully. The temperament combination (semi-aggressive+peaceful) can work, but you will need to watch them at feeding time for the first week.
Blood Parrot Cichlid
Amphilophus hybrid (crossbreed)
| Adult Size: | 8.0" |
| Temperament: | semi-aggressive |
| Min Tank: | 30 gal |
| Temperature: | 76-82°F |
| pH Range: | 6.5-7.5 |
Cardinal Tetra
Paracheirodon axelrodi
| Adult Size: | 1.5" |
| Temperament: | peaceful |
| Min Tank: | 10 gal |
| Temperature: | 73-81°F |
| pH Range: | 5.0-7.0 |
Water Parameter Overlap
| Parameter | Blood Parrot Cichlid | Cardinal Tetra | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 76-82°F | 73-81°F | 5°F ✓ |
| pH | 6.5-7.5 | 5.0-7.0 | 0.5 ✓ |
Compatibility Breakdown
Temperament Match: semi-aggressive + peaceful. Semi-aggressive → watch territory and feeding.
⚠️ Size Predation Risk: Blood Parrot Cichlid (8.0") vs Cardinal Tetra (1.5"). A 6.5" gap — the larger fish will view the smaller fish as food.
Score: 50.0/100 (GOOD ≥80, CAUTION ≥50, RISKY <50).
🔧 Tank Setup Requirements (for Both)
- Minimum tank: 30 gallons — sized for the larger fish in the pair.
- Temperature: keep it between 76°F and 81°F.
- pH: maintain 6.5 – 7.0.
- Hiding spots: essential for Blood Parrot Cichlid — caves, plants, or driftwood to retreat when feeling stressed.
- Water changes: 25% weekly minimum. Two species mean double the bioload.
🔧 Tank Stocking Calculator
Enter tank size to calculate safe stocking levels:
Recommended Equipment
Based on tank size 30+ gallons:
Floating pellet food for blood parrot cichlids
Explore Related Checks
See what else works with these fish:
Accuracy note: This tool uses expert rules + FishBase.org data. Individual fish behavior varies — a semi-aggressive individual Blood Parrot Cichlid may act differently from its species average. Always observe, quarantine new arrivals for 2-4 weeks, and avoid overcrowding. If a pairing says CAUTION, start with a smaller group and a lid.