Can Brazos Dwarf Crayfish live with Cardinal Tetra?
Caution — with care
Why
- Only a narrow water hardness overlap — keep both around 5–6 dGH.
- Brazos Dwarf Crayfish can grab Cardinal Tetra while it sleeps — only fast mid/top-water fish are reasonably safe.
Sweet spot: both do well at 73–75°F and pH 6.5–7 — aim there.
Side-by-side
| Brazos Dwarf Crayfish | Cardinal Tetra | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 65–75°F | 73–81°F |
| pH | 6.5–8 | 5–7 |
| Hardness (GH) | 5–15 dGH | 1–6 dGH |
| Adult size | 1.5" | 2" |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Peaceful |
| Min tank | 10 gal | 15 gal |
Together, plan on at least 15 gallons.
How to make it work
- Target the overlapping water-parameter range and acclimate slowly.
- Only combine with fast, mid/top-water fish and give the tankmates plenty of escape routes.
Sort it with: GH remineraliser → Aquarium Co-Op
Where to buy
- Brazos Dwarf Crayfish: buy at Flip Aquatics · Flip Aquatics live-arrival guarantee
- Cardinal Tetra: buy at Flip Aquatics · Flip Aquatics 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.
Build a full tank around this stocking →Everything compatible with Brazos Dwarf Crayfish · …with Cardinal Tetra