More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 113 litres / 29.85 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 3.8cm / 1.50inches |
| Reef Compatible | Yes |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Care Description | Easy |
| Specific Gravity | 1.021-1.025 |
| Carbonate Hardness | 8-12 |
| pH | 8.0-8.4 |
General Description
The Red Belted Cardinalfish, scientifically known as Apogon townsendi, is a visually striking fish with colors ranging from red/orange to red/pink, exhibiting a slightly transparent appearance. Characterized by vertical bars along its caudal peduncle, this species exudes a dapper, belted look.
Aquarium Suitability
This peaceful cardinalfish, ideally suited for aquariums, thrives in environments with a minimum capacity of 113 liters. It is advisable to house them with calm tank mates, as their slow and methodical swimming nature makes them susceptible to stress from more active fish.
Care and Hardiness
The Red Belted Cardinalfish is known for its ease of care in captivity, being an ideal choice for aquarists looking for a low-maintenance species. By providing a well-balanced diet rich in nutrients and maintaining suitable water parameters, these fish can thrive in home aquariums.
Reef Suitability
Reef enthusiasts will find the Red Belted Cardinalfish to be a welcome addition, as it is considered reef-compatible. Their peaceful temperament and vibrant colors make them a popular choice for reef setups.
Aquarium Setup
To create an optimal habitat for the Red Belted Cardinalfish, it is recommended to set up a 30-gallon or larger aquarium with ample live rock. Aquascaping should include structures such as caves and crevices to mimic their natural environment. Dimly-lit tanks are preferred, as these fish are primarily nocturnal.
Behaviour
This species is known for its peaceful temperament, making them well-suited for community tanks. They may pair off with a mate and have been observed breeding in captivity, displaying interesting mouth-brooding behaviors.
Feeding and Diet
As carnivorous fish, the Red Belted Cardinalfish thrives on a diet consisting of meaty foods such as feeder shrimp, mysis shrimp, bloodworms, and live feeder fish depending on their size. A well-rounded and vitamin-enriched diet is essential for their overall health.
Dimorphism and Captive Reproduction
In captivity, these fish may exhibit dimorphic characteristics, with potential differences in size or coloration between males and females. The Red Belted Cardinalfish is known to breed in aquarium settings, showcasing fascinating reproductive behaviors such as mouth-brooding.
Habitat and Distribution
Native to regions spanning from Southern Florida to the Bahamas and Northern South America in the Caribbean, the Red Belted Cardinalfish can often be found in solitary or small groups. They are commonly observed in caves or holes, with a preference for hovering in the spines of long-spined urchins.