Common name: White-jawed cardinalfish

Scientific name: Pseudamia amblyuroptera (Bleeker, 1856)

General information

The Shy Cardinalfish, scientifically known as Pseudamia amblyuroptera, is a small and peaceful marine fish that is well-suited for community aquariums. It is characterized by its silver body with a black stripe running from the eye to the caudal peduncle, and a second black stripe from the dorsal fin to the base of the tail. This species is not as common in the aquarium trade as some other cardinalfish, but it can be a unique and interesting addition to a reef or fish-only setup.

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 Prefers complex habitats
Diet
Carnivore Enjoys mysis and brine shrimp
Social
Solo Can be territorial
Reefsafe
Yes
Aggression
Semi aggresive May nip at small fish
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
    Pseudamia
    Pseudamia
  7. Species
    White-jawed cardinalfish
    Pseudamia amblyuroptera (Bleeker, 1856)
  8. Synonyms
    Cheilodipterus amblyuropterus Bleeker, 1856
    Cheilodipterus polystigma Bleeker, 1860
    Pseudamia polystigma (Bleeker, 1860)

Care

Shy Cardinalfish are relatively easy to care for, but they do require a stable and well-maintained aquarium environment. They prefer a tank with plenty of hiding places and a peaceful community. These fish are nocturnal and may be shy during the day, so providing dim lighting or shaded areas can help them feel more secure. They are omnivores and will accept a variety of foods including small pellets, frozen foods, and live brine shrimp.

Reproduction

Like many cardinalfish, Pseudamia amblyuroptera is a mouthbrooder. The male will incubate the eggs in his mouth until they hatch, providing protection from predators. This fascinating reproductive behavior can sometimes be observed in the home aquarium, although breeding them in captivity can be challenging.

Habitat

Shy Cardinalfish are found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the eastern Indian Ocean to the western Pacific. They inhabit coral reefs and lagoons, often hiding among the branches of corals or in crevices during the day. They can be found at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 30 meters.