Common name: Narrowstripe cardinalfish
General information
The Blackaxil Cardinalfish, scientifically known as Pristiapogon exostigma, is a small and peaceful marine fish that is well-suited for the home aquarium. Its distinctive feature is the black spot located at the base of the tail, which gives it the name 'twospot'. This species is part of the Apogonidae family, which is known for its hardiness and ease of care, making it a popular choice among both novice and experienced aquarists.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 150 liter (40 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 10 cm (4″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Prefers dimly lit aquariums
- Diet
- Planktivore Feeds on zooplankton in the wild
- Social
- School Best kept in groups of 6+
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Peaceful
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyCardinalfishApogonidae
- GenusCardinalfishPristiapogon
- SpeciesNarrowstripe cardinalfishPristiapogon exostigma (Jordan & Starks, 1906)
- SynonymsAmia exostigma Jordan & Starks, 1906Apogon exostigma (Jordan & Starks, 1906)Apogon frenatus Lachner, 1953
Care
Blackaxil Cardinalfish are relatively easy to care for. They thrive in a well-established aquarium with stable water conditions and plenty of hiding spaces. These fish are nocturnal and prefer dimly lit environments. They are not aggressive and can be kept with other peaceful fish. A varied diet of small meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood will help maintain their health and coloration.
Reproduction
Like many cardinalfish, Pristiapogon exostigma is a mouthbrooder. The male will carry the fertilized eggs in his mouth until they hatch, which provides protection from predators. This fascinating reproductive behavior can sometimes be observed in the home aquarium, offering a unique spectacle for the aquarist.
Habitat
The Blackaxil Cardinalfish is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to Samoa, north to the Ryukyu Islands, and south to New Caledonia. They typically inhabit coral reefs and lagoons, often hiding among the branches of corals or in crevices during the day.