Common name: Two-spotted cardinalfish

General information

The Two-spot Cardinalfish, Apogon binotatus, is a small and peaceful marine fish that is well-suited for community aquariums. It is known for its distinctive two black spots, one on the base of the caudal fin and another near the gill cover, which serve as a form of disruptive camouflage in the wild.

This species is nocturnal and tends to hide during the day, becoming more active at night when it searches for food. In the aquarium, they can be encouraged to come out more often by providing dim lighting or twilight conditions.

Care

Two-spot Cardinalfish are relatively easy to care for, making them suitable for both beginners and experienced aquarists. They thrive in a well-established aquarium with plenty of hiding places and a peaceful environment. These fish prefer to be in groups, so keeping them in small schools will help them feel secure and exhibit natural behaviors.

A varied diet of small meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood is ideal for their nutritional needs. Consistent water quality and parameters are important for their well-being.

Reproduction

Like many cardinalfish, Apogon binotatus is a mouthbrooder. The male will incubate the eggs in his mouth until they hatch, which provides protection from predators and ensures a higher survival rate for the offspring. This fascinating reproductive behavior can sometimes be observed in the home aquarium.

Habitat

The Two-spot Cardinalfish is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to Samoa, and north to the Ryukyu Islands. They typically inhabit coral reefs and lagoons, often seeking shelter among branches of corals or rocky crevices.