Ring-tailed Cardinalfish

Geographical Origin and Habitat: Tropical Indo-Pacific: from the Red Sea and East African coasts to the Society Islands, north to southern Japan, and south to Australia. Lives in sheltered groups near caves, rocky crevices, and outer reefs at depths of 1 to 40 meters.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Member of the family Apogonidae. Features a laterally compressed body and very large black and orange eyes. Reaches a length of approximately 14.5 cm.

Social Behavior: Peaceful. Nocturnal; during the day, it remains almost motionless inside caves or under coral overhangs in loose groups, dispersing at night to hunt.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Stunning copper-gold body with metallic highlights. Features a thick vertical black bar crossing the caudal peduncle and a thin blue line on the eye. Visual dimorphism is absent.

Aquarium Setup: Requires a tank of at least 150 liters with large rocky hiding places or caves. Moderate lighting or shaded areas. Low risk of jumping.

Diet and Feeding: Carnivore. Provide protein-rich frozen foods (mysis, brine shrimp, minced krill). Accepts quality pellet food after acclimation. Feed preferably in the evening.

Water Quality: Keep parameters stable. Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity SG 1.020-1.026. GH 15-25. Quality protein skimmer is recommended.

Compatibility and Cohabitation: 100% reef safe. Very quiet. Avoid aggressive tankmates that may stress it during the day. Do not house with hyperactive species.

Aquarium Breeding: Paternal mouthbrooder. The male guards the spawn in his mouth, fasting during the entire gestation period. Very rare in captive environments.

Risks and Diseases: Robust species. Sensitive to high nitrate levels and rapid temperature fluctuations.