Can Black Molly live with Cardinal Tetra?
Caution — with care
Why
- No overlapping water hardness: Black Molly wants 12–30 dGH but Cardinal Tetra wants 1–6 dGH.
- Only a narrow pH overlap — keep both around 7–7.
Sweet spot: both do well at 73–81°F and pH 7–7 — aim there.
Side-by-side
| Black Molly | Cardinal Tetra | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–82°F | 73–81°F |
| pH | 7–8.5 | 5–7 |
| Hardness (GH) | 12–30 dGH | 1–6 dGH |
| Adult size | 4" | 2" |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Peaceful |
| Min tank | 30 gal | 15 gal |
Together, plan on at least 30 gallons.
How to make it work
- Target the overlapping water-parameter range and acclimate slowly.
Sort it with: GH remineraliser
Where to buy
- Cardinal Tetra: buy at The Shrimp Farm · The Shrimp Farm live-arrival guarantee
Live-animal shipping: add a heat pack below 50°F, expect weather holds above 90°F, and schedule delivery for a moderate week when someone can receive it promptly.
Design the whole tank, not just the stocking
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Design a tank with Black Molly, Cardinal Tetra →Everything compatible with Black Molly · …with Cardinal Tetra