Common name: Lea's Cardinalfish
General information
Lea's Cardinalfish, scientifically known as Taeniamia leai, is a small and colorful marine fish that is a member of the family Apogonidae. This species is not as common in the aquarium trade as some other cardinalfish, but it can be a unique and peaceful addition to a community tank. They are nocturnal and tend to be shy, often hiding among rockwork and corals during the day.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 75 liter (20 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8 to 8.4
- Average size
- 12 cm (5″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Prefers complex environments
- Diet
- Omnivore Varied diet incl. mysis, brine shrimp
- Social
- Pair Pairs are often more stable
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Peaceful
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyCardinalfishApogonidae
- GenusCoral CardinalfishTaeniamia
- SpeciesLea's CardinalfishTaeniamia leai (Waite, 1916)
- SynonymsArchamia leai Waite, 1916
Care
Lea's Cardinalfish prefer a well-established aquarium with plenty of hiding places and a peaceful environment. They thrive in groups and should be kept with other non-aggressive fish. A varied diet of small meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood is essential for their health.
Reproduction
Like many cardinalfish, Taeniamia leai are mouthbrooders. The males incubate the eggs in their mouths until they hatch, providing a fascinating display for the aquarist. Breeding them in captivity can be challenging but rewarding for experienced hobbyists.
Habitat
Native to the Western Pacific, Lea's Cardinalfish are found in coral reefs and lagoons. They prefer areas with moderate to low water movement and are often associated with branching corals where they can seek refuge.