Ostorhinchus apogonoides

Datasheet

General Description

The Short-tooth Cardinal, scientifically known as Ostorhinchus apogonoides, belongs to the Apogonidae family. These fish exhibit a variety of colors and shapes, making them visually appealing for aquarium enthusiasts. With a large mouth and hearty appetite, they primarily feed on larger crustaceans such as shrimp and crabs. They are known to be docile but may display aggression towards similar species, especially in confined spaces.

Aquarium Suitability

Considered suitable for most aquarium setups, Short-tooth Cardinals are hardy and can thrive in a well-maintained tank environment. They are recommended to be housed individually as they tend to do better without members of the same species present. These fish require hiding spots within live rocks and prefer a peaceful cohabitation with non-aggressive tank mates. However, caution should be exercised as they may pose a threat to smaller fish and shrimp due to their predatory nature.

Demands, Care, and Hardiness

Short-tooth Cardinals are known for their docile demeanor and shy behavior, requiring caution when housed with more aggressive fish species. They thrive in aquariums with stable water conditions, including a pH range of 8.1-8.4, a temperature between 22.2-25.6°C, and a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025. These fish are hardy and can adapt well to various tank setups, provided that hiding places are available for them to seek refuge and feel secure.

Reef Suitability

Reef enthusiasts can enjoy keeping Short-tooth Cardinals in their setups, as they are considered reef-safe with caution. However, their predatory tendencies towards small crustaceans may require careful consideration when introducing them to a reef environment. Adequate hiding places and suitable tank mates can contribute to a harmonious coexistence within a reef setting.

Aquarium Setup

When setting up an aquarium for Short-tooth Cardinals, it is essential to provide ample hiding spots, such as live rocks and crevices, to mimic their natural habitat. A tank size of at least 100 liters is recommended to accommodate their territorial behavior. Maintaining stable water parameters and offering a varied diet consisting of small crustaceans like krill, mysis, and artemia will contribute to the overall well-being of these fish in captivity.

Behaviour

Short-tooth Cardinals exhibit nocturnal behavior, often seeking shelter during the day among rocks, corals, or even spines of sea urchins. While they are generally peaceful towards other tank inhabitants, conflicts may arise if space or food resources are limited. These fish can form small shoals and display intricate social behaviors within a well-structured aquarium environment.

Feeding and Diet

In the aquarium, Short-tooth Cardinals are opportunistic feeders, readily consuming a range of foods. Providing them with a diet rich in small crustaceans like krill, mysis, and artemia will help replicate their natural feeding habits. Regular feeding schedules and offering a variety of food options will ensure proper nutrition and health for these fish in a captive setting.

Dimorphism and Captive Reproduction

Information regarding dimorphism and captive reproduction of Short-tooth Cardinals is not specified. However, these fish are known to be suitable candidates for breeding projects in controlled environments, given their adaptability and ability to thrive in captive conditions.

Habitat and Distribution

The natural habitat of Short-tooth Cardinals spans the East Africa to the Philippines region, extending north to Japan and Taiwan, and south to northern Australia and the Society Islands. They are commonly found in the East Indian Ocean, West Indian Ocean, Australia, Japan, the Red Sea, Indonesia, and the Central/West Pacific regions, inhabiting a variety of reef environments and coastal waters rich in larger crustaceans.