Common name: Ghost cardinalfish

Scientific name: Nectamia savayensis (Günther, 1872)
Cardinalfish, Nectamia savayensis, Sulawesi Indonesia

General information

The Savay Damselfish, scientifically known as Nectamia savayensis, is a small and colorful marine fish that is not commonly found in the aquarium trade. This species is part of the Pomacentridae family, which includes other popular aquarium damselfishes. They are known for their hardiness and adaptability to various marine environments.

Details

Recommended minimum tank volume
75 liter (20 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
10 cm (4″)
Care level
Moderate to easy Prefers dimly lit tanks
Diet
Carnivore Enjoys small crustaceans
Social
Pair Pairs are harmonious
Reefsafe
Yes
Aggression
Peaceful
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
    Nectamia
  7. Species
    Ghost cardinalfish
    Nectamia savayensis (Günther, 1872)
  8. Synonyms
    Apogon savayensis Günther, 1872
    Apogon savyensis Günther, 1872
    Ostorhinchus savayensis (Günther, 1872)
    Ostorhynchus savayensis (Günther, 1871)

Care

Savay Damselfish are relatively hardy and can adapt to a range of conditions, but they thrive best in well-established aquariums with stable water quality. They require ample swimming space and rockwork or coral for hiding and territorial purposes. A varied diet of meaty foods and high-quality marine flakes or pellets will help maintain their health and coloration.

Reproduction

Like many damselfish, the Savay Damselfish is an oviparous species, with females laying eggs that are then fertilized by the male. The male typically guards the nest until the eggs hatch. In an aquarium setting, breeding can occur if a stable pair is established and the environment is conducive to spawning.

Habitat

Nectamia savayensis is found in the Indo-Pacific region, often inhabiting coral reefs and lagoons. They are typically seen at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 20 meters. Their natural distribution includes areas around the Andaman Sea, the Philippines, and Indonesia.