Flower Cardinalfish

Geographical Origin and Habitat: Tropical Indo-Pacific: distributed from the eastern coasts of India to the Philippines, Indonesia, north to southern Japan. Inhabits sheltered rocky reefs, harbors, and silted coastal lagoons at depths of 2 to 30 meters.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Member of the family Apogonidae, genus Ostorhinchus. Features a tall, laterally compressed body and very large eyes adapted for nocturnal activity. Reaches 14 cm.

Social Behavior: Peaceful, aggregating in small groups near coral overhangs or artificial structures during the day. Active nocturnal hunter.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Beige or pinkish body with golden-yellow longitudinal lines and a thick vertical black band surrounding the caudal peduncle. A blue stripe crosses the eye. Minimal dimorphism.

Aquarium Setup: Requires a tank of at least 150 liters with live rock. Low risk of jumping. Moderate lighting or macroalgae presence is recommended.

Diet and Feeding: Carnivore. Offer frozen foods (mysis, brine shrimp, minced krill) and high-quality fine pellet foods. Feed twice daily.

Water Quality: Stable marine parameters. Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity SG 1.020-1.026. GH 15-25. Efficient skimming is recommended.

Compatibility and Cohabitation: Reef safe. Excellent tankmate for community reef systems. Avoid housing with fast predators that may scare it.

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

Risks and Diseases: Very hardy. Sensitive to high nitrate levels and sudden salinity fluctuations.