Sphaeramia orbicularis

Datasheet

General Description

The Orbiculate cardinalfish (Sphaeramia orbicularis), also known as the Polka-dot cardinalfish, belongs to the Apogonidae family. These fish are characterized by their diverse shapes and colors, making them an appealing choice for aquarium enthusiasts. With a large mouth and hearty appetite, they primarily feed on larger crustaceans like shrimp and crabs, but they will consume a variety of food in captivity.

Aquarium Suitability

Considered suitable for most home aquariums, the Orbiculate cardinalfish is recommended to be kept in groups of at least three, preferably in tanks larger than 100 liters. Despite being docile, they may display aggression towards smaller fish and crustaceans, posing a threat to tank inhabitants if not carefully monitored.

Demands, Care, and Hardiness

These cardinalfish are generally hardy and can adapt well to varying water conditions within the recommended parameters of pH 8.1-8.4, temperature of 22.2-25.6°C, and a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025. It is crucial to provide them with ample hiding spots, such as live rocks, as they are known to be shy and seek shelter during the day.

Reef Suitability

While the Orbiculate cardinalfish is considered reef-safe with caution, they may potentially pose a threat to small crustaceans and can disturb the delicate balance of a reef ecosystem.

Aquarium Setup

When setting up an aquarium for Orbiculate cardinalfish, ensure the presence of hiding places like live rocks or corals where they can seek refuge. Maintaining stable water parameters and offering a varied diet will contribute to their well-being.

Behaviour

Orbiculate cardinalfish tend to be peaceful towards other tank mates, but intra-species aggression might occur if there is overcrowding or insufficient food. They are known to exhibit nocturnal behavior, preferring to hide during the day and becoming more active at night.

Feeding and Diet

Their diet primarily consists of small crustaceans such as krill, mysis, and artemia. Offering zooplankton like cyclops and pods will also ensure a balanced nutritional intake for these fish.

Dimorphism and Captive Reproduction

Male Orbiculate cardinalfish are responsible for mouth incubation, where they carry and protect the eggs in their mouth until hatching. The species can be bred in captivity, making them an interesting choice for aquarists looking to venture into breeding endeavors.

Habitat and Distribution

Found in the Indo-Pacific region from East Africa to Kiribati, the Orbiculate cardinalfish inhabits a wide range of coastal waters, including the Ryukyu Islands, New Caledonia, and Micronesia. Their distribution extends from the Red Sea to Australia and Japan, showcasing their adaptability to diverse marine environments.