Can Cardinal tetra Live With Dwarf gourami?

Detailed assessment

Both Cardinal tetra and Dwarf gourami share a comfortable temperature range of 23–27°C (Cardinal tetra prefers 23–29°C, Dwarf gourami prefers 22–27°C). Their pH ranges overlap well at 6–7.5, so water chemistry is compatible. Dwarf gourami has a temperament score of 3 (out of 5), which means it can be territorial or aggressive toward Cardinal tetra (score 1). The size difference is significant: Dwarf gourami reaches 8.8 cm while Cardinal tetra reaches only 3.5 cm, and the larger species may view the smaller one as prey. Note: fish 2x+ larger may eat smaller tankmates. With careful monitoring and adequate tank size these species can usually coexist, but be prepared to separate them if aggression or stress appears.