Where to see Cardinal Tetras in the UK

The Cardinal Tetra is a small, vibrant freshwater fish known for its striking blue and red colouration. Native to the blackwater rivers of South America, particularly in the Amazon Basin, these fish thrive in warm, densely vegetated waters. Cardinal Tetras primarily feed on small insects, zooplankton, and other tiny organisms found in their natural habitat. While their conservation status has not been formally evaluated, they are commonly bred in captivity, which helps reduce pressure on wild populations. A fascinating fact about Cardinal Tetras is that they are known to exhibit schooling behaviour, often swimming in groups to enhance their safety from predators. UK families can observe these beautiful fish at various zoos and wildlife parks, where they are often featured in aquatic exhibits.