Common name: Neotenous cardinalfish

Scientific name: Ostorhinchus neotes (Allen, Kuiter & Randall, 1994)

General information

The Threadfin Cardinalfish, Ostorhinchus neotes, is a small and peaceful marine fish that is well-suited for community aquariums. It is known for its distinctive long fin rays on the dorsal and anal fins, which give it a delicate and elegant appearance. This species is nocturnal and tends to be more active during the night.

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
Pair
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
    Neotenous cardinalfish
    Ostorhinchus neotes (Allen, Kuiter & Randall, 1994)
  8. Synonyms
    Apogon neotenes Allen, Kuiter & Randall, 1994
    Apogon neotes Allen, Kuiter & Randall, 1994
    Apogon neotus Allen, Kuiter & Randall, 1994

Care

Ostorhinchus neotes is a hardy species that adapts well to life in captivity. They prefer a tank with plenty of hiding places and a peaceful environment. They are schooling fish and do best in groups of five or more. A varied diet of small meaty foods like mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood will help maintain their health and coloration.

Reproduction

Threadfin Cardinalfish are mouthbrooders, with the male carrying the eggs in his mouth until they hatch. This fascinating reproductive behavior can sometimes be observed in the home aquarium if the fish are well cared for and the environment is stable.

Habitat

This species is found in the Western Pacific, from the Philippines to northern Australia. They inhabit coral reefs and lagoons, often taking refuge in caves or among coral branches during the day.