Common name: Orbicular damsel
General information
The Orbiculate Cardinalfish, Amblyglyphidodon orbicularis, is a small, peaceful marine fish known for its distinctive round body shape and striking coloration. It is a member of the family Apogonidae, which includes many species of cardinalfish popular in the aquarium trade. This species is not as common as some other cardinalfish but can make a unique addition to a community tank.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 200 liter (53 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 24 to 28 °C (75 to 82 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 12 cm (5″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Adaptable but needs hiding spots
- Diet
- Omnivore Varied diet incl. algae and meaty foods
- Social
- School Best in groups, can be aggressive if solo
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive May nip at slow-moving fish/inverts
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerciformesPerciformes
- FamilyDamselfishPomacentridae
- GenusGolden damselfishAmblyglyphidodon
- SpeciesOrbicular damselAmblyglyphidodon orbicularis (Hombron & Jacquinot, 1853)
- SynonymsGlyphisodon orbicularis Hombron & Jacquinot, 1853
Care
Orbiculate Cardinalfish are relatively hardy and can adapt to a range of aquarium conditions. They prefer a well-established tank with plenty of hiding places and a peaceful environment. They are nocturnal and may hide during the day. A varied diet of small meaty foods like mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood will help maintain their health and coloration.
Reproduction
Like many cardinalfish, Amblyglyphidodon orbicularis is a mouthbrooder. The male will incubate the eggs in his mouth until they hatch, providing protection from predators. This fascinating reproductive behavior can sometimes be observed in the home aquarium, offering a unique educational opportunity for aquarists.
Habitat
The Orbiculate Cardinalfish is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to Samoa, north to the Ryukyu Islands, and south to New Caledonia. They typically inhabit coral reefs and lagoons, often sheltering in staghorn coral thickets during the day.