Common name: Neotenous cardinalfish
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
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyCardinalfishApogonidae
- GenusCardinalfishOstorhinchus
- SpeciesNeotenous cardinalfishOstorhinchus neotes (Allen, Kuiter & Randall, 1994)
- SynonymsApogon neotenes Allen, Kuiter & Randall, 1994Apogon neotes Allen, Kuiter & Randall, 1994Apogon 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.