Common name: Mozambique Cardinalfish
General information
The Mozambique Cardinalfish, Taeniamia mozambiquensis, is a small and colorful marine fish that is gaining popularity in the reefkeeping hobby. This species is known for its peaceful demeanor and striking appearance, with a combination of silver, red, and black hues that make it a visually appealing addition to any aquarium.
Native to the Western Indian Ocean, particularly around Mozambique, this cardinalfish is often found in shallow, coastal waters where it forms loose aggregations. It is a nocturnal species, hiding among the reef structure during the day and emerging at night to feed.
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
- 8 cm (3″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Adaptable but sensitive to poor water quality
- Diet
- Omnivore Varied diet of meaty foods and algae
- Social
- Pair Pairs are harmonious; may squabble with conspecifics
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Peaceful
- Captive bred
- Yes Available as captive-bred
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyCardinalfishApogonidae
- GenusCoral CardinalfishTaeniamia
- SpeciesMozambique CardinalfishTaeniamia mozambiquensis (Smith, 1961)
- SynonymsArchamia mozambiquensis Smith, 1961
Care
Mozambique Cardinalfish are relatively easy to care for, making them suitable for both beginner and experienced aquarists. They thrive in a well-established aquarium with plenty of hiding places and a peaceful community. These fish prefer dim lighting, mimicking their natural dusk and dawn activity in the wild.
A varied diet of small meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood will help maintain their health and coloration. It's important to feed them in the evening when they are most active.
Reproduction
Like many other cardinalfish, Taeniamia mozambiquensis exhibits mouthbrooding behavior. The male will incubate 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 hobbyists a unique insight into the breeding habits of marine fish.
Habitat
Mozambique Cardinalfish are typically found in coastal reefs and lagoons, often associating with branching corals and overhangs that provide shelter. They are usually seen at depths ranging from just below the surface to about 20 meters, where they can take advantage of the complex reef structure for food and protection.