Common name: dogtooth cardinal

Scientific name: Cheilodipterus arabicus (Gmelin, 1789)

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

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Chordates
    Chordata
  3. Class
    Ray-finned Fishes
    Actinopterygii
  4. Order
    Perch-like Fishes
    Perciformes
  5. Family
    Cardinalfish
    Apogonidae
  6. Genus
    Cardinalfish
    Cheilodipterus
  7. Species
    dogtooth cardinal
    Cheilodipterus arabicus (Gmelin, 1789)
  8. Synonyms
    Centropomus arabicus (Gmelin, 1789)
    Cheilodipterus caninus Smith, 1949
    Cheilodipterus lineatus Lacepède, 1801
    Perca arabica Gmelin, 1789
    Perca 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.