Can angelfish live with cardinal tetras?

Yes, with care. Adult angelfish may eat small fish like cardinal tetras. Add the small fish first, as adults, in a big tank.

By Andy · Updated October 31, 2026 · Tankmate guide

Yes, with care. Adult angelfish may eat small fish like cardinal tetras. Add the small fish first, as adults, in a big tank.

With care

Verdict

76–82°F

Shared temperature

30 gal

Smallest tank

The two fish side by side

Fish	Adult size	Temperature	Min. tank	Keep	Watch for
Angelfish	6 in	76–84°F	30 gal	Alone or as a pair	long fins, eats small fish
Cardinal tetra	2 in	75–82°F	20 gal	6 or more	peaceful

Set the heater to about 79°F, in the middle of the range they share (76–82°F).
Use a tank of at least 30 gallons, and bigger is calmer. Check the numbers with the stocking calculator.
Keep cardinal tetras in a group of 6 or more. A big group is calmer and more colorful.
Add the cardinal tetras first, as adults, so they are too big to be eaten when the bigger fish arrive.
Add plenty of plants and cover so every fish can get out of sight.

For angelfish: Bristlenose pleco, Corydoras (bronze or peppered), Dwarf gourami, Molly, Platy, Swordtail
For cardinal tetras: Amano shrimp, Betta (male), Black skirt tetra, Bristlenose pleco, Cherry barb, Cherry shrimp

Want to check a whole tank? Pick up to 8 fish in the fish compatibility checker, which opens with this pair already filled in.

Planning a whole tank? Your First Aquarium includes ready-made stocking plans and care cards for 15 beginner fish. Get the guide for $12