Common name: Bridled Cardinalfish

General information

The Bridled Cardinalfish, scientifically known as Taeniamia fucata, is a small and peaceful marine fish that is well-suited for the home aquarium. It is part of the Apogonidae family, which is known for its hardiness and ease of care. This species is often appreciated for its striking appearance, with a silver body accented by a series of vertical red stripes and a distinctive long spine on the first dorsal fin.

Care

Bridled Cardinalfish are nocturnal and prefer a dimly lit aquarium with plenty of hiding spaces among live rock or soft corals. They are relatively easy to care for but do best in a peaceful community tank. They can be kept singly or in small groups, and they thrive on a varied diet of small meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood.

Reproduction

Like many cardinalfish, Taeniamia fucata exhibits mouthbrooding behavior. The male carries the fertilized eggs in his mouth until they hatch, providing protection from predators. This fascinating reproductive strategy can sometimes be observed in the home aquarium, offering a unique spectacle for the aquarist.

Habitat

The Bridled Cardinalfish is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to Samoa, and north to the Ryukyu Islands. They typically inhabit coral reefs and lagoons, often hiding in crevices or among coral branches during the day. In the wild, they can be found at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 30 meters.