Albino Cardinal Tetra

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: Hemigrammus rhodostomus
• Common Name: Albino Cardinal Tetra (also referred to as Albino Rummy-Nose Tetra)
• Adult Size: Around 2 inches (5 cm)
• Life Expectancy: 5–6 years with proper care
• Habitat: Native to the Amazon River Basin; found in soft, acidic, slow-moving waters with dense vegetation

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons (best kept in groups of 6 or more due to schooling behavior)
• Ideal Temperature: 75–81°F (24–27°C)
• pH Range: 5.5–7.0
• Water Hardness: 2–10 dGH
• Temperament: Peaceful, social, and best suited for community tanks with other small, non-aggressive fish

Diet & Nutrition

• Omnivorous: Yes

• • Accepts a variety of foods: high-quality flake or micro-pellet foods, along with live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms

Appearance

• Pale, semi-transparent body due to albinism
• Red nose (like standard Rummy-Nose varieties) is less intense or pinkish in color
• Tail features the distinctive black and white striped pattern, though slightly fainter in albino specimens
• Eyes may appear red due to lack of pigment

Distinctive Features

• Signature red or pink nose, and a horizontal striped tail pattern
• Albino coloration makes them stand out in planted tanks
• Excellent schooling behavior—tight formations, especially when stressed or sensing changes in water parameters
• Sensitive to water quality; stable, clean conditions are crucial