Common name: White-jawed cardinalfish
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
- Conservation statusSource: IUCN Red List
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyCardinalfishApogonidae
- GenusPseudamiaPseudamia
- SpeciesWhite-jawed cardinalfishPseudamia amblyuroptera (Bleeker, 1856)
- SynonymsCheilodipterus amblyuropterus Bleeker, 1856Cheilodipterus polystigma Bleeker, 1860Pseudamia 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.