Green-belly Cardinalfish

Geographical Origin and Habitat: Indo-Pacific, ranging from East Africa to the Philippines and northern Australia. Shelters in dense aggregations among branching Acropora corals in sheltered bays at depths of 2 to 17 meters.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Part of the Apogonidae family, genus Zoramia. Features a glassy, semi-translucent oval body and large eyes. Reaches a maximum length of 4.2 cm (1.65 inches).

Social Behavior: Peaceful and schooling. Must be kept in a group of at least 5-8 individuals to prevent extreme stress. Hovers in tight groups during the day.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Semi-transparent body with silvery reflections and a bright green hue on the belly. No visible external sexual dimorphism.

Aquarium Setup: Minimum tank size of 80 liters (20 gallons) with branching SPS corals (like Acropora) for shelter. Matured filtration and stable reef parameters are preferred.

Diet and Feeding: Carnivorous zooplanktivore. Requires multiple daily feedings of cyclops, copepods, and baby brine shrimp. Rarely accepts dry food.

Water Quality: Maintain stable reef parameters: temperature 24-28°C (75-82°F), pH 8.1-8.4, specific gravity 1.022-1.025, and KH 8-12. Keep nitrate and phosphate levels low.

Compatibility and Cohabitation: Reef-safe. Best housed with peaceful species like gobies and small clownfish. Do not house with fast-swimming, aggressive fish.

Aquarium Breeding: Paternal mouthbrooder. Spawning is rare in home aquaria and requires a peaceful environment. Rearing larvae is extremely difficult.

Risks and Diseases: Very delicate and sensitive to shipping stress. Prone to starvation if not fed frequently. Vulnerable to bullying by aggressive tankmates.