Common name: Spotted cardinalfish

General information

The Spotted Cardinalfish, Apogon maculatus, is a small and attractive marine fish that is popular among aquarists for its peaceful demeanor and striking appearance. It has a silver body with a distinctive pattern of orange or red spots and a dark vertical band through the eye, which helps to camouflage it in the wild.

These fish are nocturnal and tend to be shy during the day, often hiding among rockwork and corals. At night, they become more active, venturing out to feed.

Care

Spotted Cardinalfish are relatively easy to care for, making them suitable for both beginner and advanced hobbyists. They thrive in a well-established aquarium with plenty of hiding places and a peaceful community. These fish prefer dim lighting, mimicking their natural dusk and dawn activity in the wild.

A varied diet of small meaty foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and finely chopped seafood will help maintain their health and coloration. They are also known to accept high-quality prepared foods.

Reproduction

Like many cardinalfish, Apogon maculatus is a mouthbrooder. The male will carry the fertilized 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

Spotted Cardinalfish are found in the Western Atlantic, from North Carolina and Bermuda to Brazil, including the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. They inhabit shallow coastal waters, often associating with reefs, seagrass beds, and mangroves where they can find shelter and an abundance of food.