Common name: Striped cardinalfish

Scientific name: Ostorhinchus angustatus (Smith & Radcliffe, 1911)
juvenile splitband cardinalfish fish

General information

The Narrowstripe Cardinalfish, Ostorhinchus angustatus, is a small and peaceful marine fish that is well-suited for community aquariums. It is known for its slender body and distinctive narrow stripes running the length of its body. This species is nocturnal and tends to be more active during the evening or with subdued lighting.

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
Diet
Omnivore
Social
Harem
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
    Ostorhinchus
  7. Species
    Striped cardinalfish
    Ostorhinchus angustatus (Smith & Radcliffe, 1911)
  8. Synonyms
    Amia angustata Smith & Radcliffe, 1911
    Apogon angustatus (Smith & Radcliffe, 1911)
    Ostorhynchus angustatus (Smith & Radcliffe, 1911)

Care

Narrowstripe Cardinalfish are relatively easy to care for, making them suitable for both novice and experienced aquarists. They prefer an aquarium with plenty of hiding places and a peaceful environment. These fish are not aggressive and can be kept with other non-aggressive tank mates. They thrive on a varied diet of meaty foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and finely chopped seafood.

Reproduction

Like many cardinalfish, Ostorhinchus angustatus is a mouthbrooder. The male will carry the fertilized eggs in his mouth until they hatch, providing protection from predators. This fascinating reproductive behavior can sometimes be observed in the home aquarium.

Habitat

The Narrowstripe Cardinalfish is found in the Western Pacific, from the Philippines to Australia. They typically inhabit coral reefs and lagoons, often seeking shelter among corals and rocks. In the wild, they are usually found at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 30 meters.