Definition

Noun: 1. A small, brightly colored freshwater fish: A small, brightly colored tropical freshwater fish (Paracheirodon axelrodi) native to South America, popular in home aquariums. It is characterized by a striking, iridescent blue horizontal stripe and a vibrant red lower body that extends the full length of its belly.

Usage

The term "cardinal tetra" is used specifically to refer to this species of fish. It is a common noun. * It is often discussed in contexts related to aquarium keeping, tropical fish, aquatic biology, and pet care. * It is typically used with articles like "a" or "the," or in the plural form "cardinal tetras."

Examples

• "The cardinal tetra is more sensitive to water conditions than the similar neon tetra."
• "A school of cardinal tetras adds a brilliant flash of color to any planted aquarium."
• "Many aquarists consider the cardinal tetra one of the most beautiful freshwater fish."

Advanced Usage

• In scientific and hobbyist contexts: The name is used precisely to distinguish it from the closely related "neon tetra" (), which has a shorter red stripe that only extends halfway along its body.
  • Example: "For a fully red underbelly, you want the cardinal tetra, not the neon tetra."

Variants and Related Words

• Tetra (n.): A common name for many small, colorful characiform fish, often kept in aquariums. "Cardinal tetra" is a specific type of tetra.
• Paracheirodon axelrodi (n.): The scientific (Latin) name for the cardinal tetra.

Synonyms

• Red neon tetra (a less common common name)
• Brilliant rummy-nose tetra (a very uncommon and potentially confusing common name)

Note: While "neon tetra" is related, it is a different species and not a true synonym.

Noun

1. small bright red and blue aquarium fish from streams in Brazil and Colombia