Can Cardinal Tetra live with Moonlight Gourami?
Caution — with care
Why
- Only a narrow water hardness overlap — keep both around 6 dGH.
- Moonlight Gourami is large enough to threaten a small Cardinal Tetra — usually fine once both are adult, but watch new additions.
Sweet spot: both do well at 77–81°F and pH 6.5–7 — aim there.
Side-by-side
| Cardinal Tetra | Moonlight Gourami | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 73–81°F | 77–86°F |
| pH | 5–7 | 6.5–7.6 |
| Hardness (GH) | 1–6 dGH | 6–7.5 dGH |
| Adult size | 2" | 6" |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Peaceful |
| Min tank | 15 gal | 55 gal |
Together, plan on at least 55 gallons.
How to make it work
- Target the overlapping water-parameter range and acclimate slowly.
Sort it with: GH remineraliser → Aquarium Co-Op
Where to buy
- Cardinal Tetra: buy at Flip Aquatics · Flip Aquatics live-arrival guarantee
- Moonlight Gourami: 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 Cardinal Tetra · …with Moonlight Gourami