Can cardinal tetras and otocinclus live together?
Yes
Cardinal tetras and otocinclus can share a tank. Their water needs overlap and neither is known to bother the other.
Why
- Their temperature and pH ranges overlap comfortably, and neither is known to nip, chase or eat the other.
What each one needs
| Cardinal tetra | Otocinclus | Both | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 73–84°F (23–29°C) | 72–79°F (22–26°C) | 73–79°F (23–26°C) |
| pH | 5.0–7.0 | 6.0–7.5 | 6.0–7.0 |
| Minimum tank | 20 gal (76 L) | 10 gal (38 L) | 20 gal (76 L) |
| Keep at least | 6 | 4 | |
| Adult size | 2 in (5.1 cm) | 1.8 in (4.6 cm) |
The smallest tank for both
A 20 gallons (76 L) tank holds 6 cardinal tetras and 4 otocinclus at about 50% of its stocking limit, which leaves room for more.