Common name: Yellow cardinal-fish

General information

The Cave Cardinalfish, Ostorhinchus cavitensis, is a small and peaceful marine fish that is well-suited for community aquariums. It is part of the Apogonidae family, which is known for its hardiness and ease of care. These fish are nocturnal and tend to hide during the day, making them an interesting choice for aquarists who enjoy observing nighttime behaviors.

Care

Cave Cardinalfish are relatively easy to care for, which makes them a good choice for beginner and intermediate aquarists. They thrive in a well-established aquarium with plenty of hiding places and a peaceful environment. These fish prefer dim lighting and a gentle water flow. A varied diet of small meaty foods, such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and finely chopped seafood, will help maintain their health and coloration.

Reproduction

In the wild, Cave Cardinalfish are mouthbrooders, with males taking on the responsibility of carrying eggs in their mouths until they hatch. This fascinating reproductive behavior can also be observed in the home aquarium, although breeding them in captivity can be challenging.

Habitat

Natural Habitat

Cave Cardinalfish are found in the Western Pacific, from the Philippines to northern Australia. They inhabit caves and overhangs on coral reefs, usually at depths ranging from 3 to 30 meters.

Aquarium Habitat

In the aquarium, they require a setup that mimics their natural habitat, with plenty of rockwork and caves to provide shelter and a sense of security.