Common name: Ochre-striped cardinalfish

General information

The Compressed Cardinalfish, scientifically known as Ostorhinchus compressus, is a small and peaceful marine fish that is well-suited for the home aquarium. It is recognized by its elongated body, pale yellow to silver coloration, and distinctive ochre stripes that run the length of its body. This species is nocturnal and tends to be shy during the day, often hiding among rockwork and corals.

Care

Compressed Cardinalfish are relatively easy to care for, making them suitable for both beginner and advanced aquarists. They thrive in a well-established aquarium with plenty of hiding places and a peaceful community. These fish prefer dim lighting due to their nocturnal nature and should be provided with a varied diet of small meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood.

Reproduction

In the wild, Compressed Cardinalfish are mouthbrooders, with males incubating the eggs in their mouths until they hatch. This fascinating reproductive behavior can also be observed in the home aquarium, where successful breeding can occur if the environment is stable and the fish are well-fed.

Habitat

Ostorhinchus compressus is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the Line Islands, north to the Ryukyu Islands, south to New Caledonia and Tonga. They inhabit coral reefs and lagoons, often found at depths ranging from 1 to 30 meters, where they seek shelter during the day and forage for food at night.