Broadstriped Cardinalfish

Geographical Origin and Habitat: Tropical Indo-Pacific: from the Red Sea and East Africa to the Line and Society Islands, north to southern Japan, and south to Australia. Inhabits rocky ledges and outer reefs exposed to wave action at depths of 3 to 20 meters.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Member of the family Apogonidae, genus Ostorhinchus. Features an elongated laterally compressed body and very large ringed eyes. Grows up to 11 cm.

Social Behavior: Peaceful and shy during the day, preferring to remain hidden in loose groups near caves. Active during crepuscular and night hours.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Silvery or light golden-brown body, decorated with 5-6 broad, well-marked longitudinal brown or black stripes. A black diamond-shaped spot on the caudal peduncle. Visual dimorphism is absent.

Aquarium Setup: Requires a tank of at least 120 liters with plenty of live rock to provide shaded shelters. Moderate lighting or macroalgae presence. Low risk of jumping.

Diet and Feeding: Carnivore. Feeds on zooplankton. In captivity, offer frozen foods (mysis, brine shrimp, minced krill). Accepts dry pellet or flake food after acclimation. Feed twice daily.

Water Quality: Keep parameters stable. Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity SG 1.020-1.026. GH 15-25. Efficient biological filtration reduces stress.

Compatibility and Cohabitation: 100% reef safe. Suitable for reef aquariums with soft and hard corals. Avoid housing with fast predators that may stress it.

Aquarium Breeding: Paternal mouthbrooder. The male holds the eggs in his mouth until hatching, fasting during the incubation period.

Risks and Diseases: Robust species. May suffer from starvation if housed with tankmates that are too fast during feeding. Sensitive to nitrate accumulation.