Common name: dogtooth cardinal
General information
The Arabian Cardinalfish, Cheilodipterus arabicus, is a striking species known for its bold stripes and peaceful demeanor. This fish is a nocturnal species, often hiding during the day and becoming more active at night. It is a relatively small fish, reaching up to 13 centimeters in length, and is characterized by its silver body with several vertical black bands.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 200 liter (53 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 25 cm (10″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy May nip at clam mantles
- Diet
- Carnivore Prefers meaty foods
- Social
- Solo Territorial, best kept alone
- Reefsafe
- No May eat small fish
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive Can be territorial
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyCardinalfishApogonidae
- GenusCardinalfishCheilodipterus
- Speciesdogtooth cardinalCheilodipterus arabicus (Gmelin, 1789)
- SynonymsCentropomus arabicus (Gmelin, 1789)Cheilodipterus caninus Smith, 1949Cheilodipterus lineatus Lacepède, 1801Perca arabica Gmelin, 1789Perca lineata Forsskål, 1775
Care
Arabian Cardinalfish are suitable for both novice and experienced aquarists due to their hardy nature. They thrive in a well-established aquarium with plenty of hiding places and a peaceful community. These fish prefer dim lighting to mimic their natural habitat and require a varied diet of meaty foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and finely chopped seafood.
Reproduction
In the wild, Cheilodipterus arabicus forms harems consisting of one male and several females. They are mouthbrooders, with the male incubating the eggs in his mouth until they hatch. In the aquarium, breeding can be challenging, but providing an environment that closely mimics their natural habitat can encourage spawning behavior.
Habitat
The Arabian Cardinalfish is native to the Western Indian Ocean, including the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. It is typically found in coral-rich areas and lagoons, often seeking refuge among the branches of stony corals or hiding in crevices during the day.