Common name: Doederlein's cardinalfish

General information

The Twospot Cardinalfish, scientifically known as Ostorhinchus doederleini, is a small and peaceful marine fish that is well-suited for reef aquariums. It is characterized by its silver body with a distinctive black spot at the base of the caudal fin and another on the dorsal fin. This species is nocturnal and tends to be shy, often hiding among the rockwork and corals during the day.

Care

Ostorhinchus doederleini is a hardy species that adapts well to life in captivity. They prefer a well-established aquarium with plenty of hiding places and a peaceful community. 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 mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood.

Reproduction

In the wild, Twospot Cardinalfish are mouthbrooders, with males carrying the eggs in their mouths until they hatch. This fascinating behavior can also be observed in the home aquarium if conditions are right and the fish are well-conditioned. Breeding in captivity is possible, but raising the fry can be challenging due to their small size and specific dietary requirements.

Habitat

The natural habitat of the Twospot Cardinalfish includes coral reefs and lagoons in the Western Pacific, from Japan to Australia. They are typically found in shallow waters, often associating with branching corals where they can seek refuge from predators.