Can cardinal tetras and zebra danios live together?

Yes

Cardinal tetras and zebra danios can share a tank. Their water needs overlap and neither is known to bother the other.

Cardinal tetra Zebra danio

Why

  • Their temperature and pH ranges overlap comfortably, and neither is known to nip, chase or eat the other.

What each one needs

Cardinal tetraZebra danioBoth
Temperature73–84°F (23–29°C)64–77°F (18–25°C)73–77°F (23–25°C)
pH5.0–7.06.5–7.56.5–7.0
Minimum tank20 gal (76 L)10 gal (38 L)20 gal (76 L)
Keep at least66
Adult size2 in (5.1 cm)2 in (5.1 cm)

The smallest tank for both

A 20 gallons (76 L) tank holds 6 cardinal tetras and 6 zebra danios at about 60% of its stocking limit, which leaves room for more.

Other tank mates for cardinal tetras

Other tank mates for zebra danios