Flame Cardinal Fish
Flame Cardinalfish
Species:
Apogon maculatus
Growth Form:
Hovering mid-to-lower column, nocturnal
Coloration:
Bright red to orange body with a black eye spot near the tail; semi-transparent fins
Temperament:
Peaceful, shy
Tank Size:
20 gallons minimum (30+ gallons recommended for small groups)
Placement:
Mid-to-lower water column; prefers rock crevices, coral branches, and caves
Lighting:
Low to Moderate
Flow:
Low to Moderate
Diet:
Carnivore (Planktivore)
Feeding:
Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, copepods, finely chopped seafood, high-quality frozen and pellet foods; feed 1–2 times daily
Reef Safe:
Yes
Care Level:
Easy to Moderate
Flame Cardinal fish
Species:
Apogon maculatus
Common Names:
Flame Cardinalfish, Firefish Cardinal
Origin:
Western Atlantic (Bermuda, Florida, Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico)
Adult Size:
~2–3 inches
Lifespan:
3–5 years with proper care
Appearance & Coloration
The Flame Cardinalfish is a stunning small marine fish known for its bright red to orange body and striking black eye spot near the tail base. Its elongated body and large eyes give it a delicate, jewel-like appearance, and the semi-transparent fins add to its elegance. The fiery coloration makes it a standout species in small reef or nano-reef setups.
Temperament & Behavior
Peaceful, nocturnal, and somewhat shy, Flame Cardinalfish are excellent for reef aquariums. They spend much of the day hiding among rockwork and coral, becoming more active at night or during feeding times. They are social fish and thrive in pairs or small groups, which also helps them feel secure.
Tank Size Requirements
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Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons
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Recommended Tank Size: 30+ gallons for small groups
A well-structured tank with plenty of hiding spots is ideal to reduce stress.
Placement & Habitat
Prefer mid-to-lower water column, often hovering near rock crevices, coral branches, or caves. Provide shaded areas and overhangs to mimic natural hiding spots.
Lighting Requirements
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Lighting: Low to Moderate
They do not require intense lighting and prefer dimmer zones in the tank.
Water Flow
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Flow: Low to Moderate
Calm water allows them to hover comfortably without stress.
Diet & Feeding
Flame Cardinalfish are carnivorous planktivores.
Diet Includes:
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Mysis shrimp
-
Brine shrimp
-
Copepods
-
Finely chopped seafood
-
High-quality frozen and pellet foods
Feeding Frequency:
1–2 times daily. They adapt well to prepared foods once acclimated.
Reef Compatibility
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Reef Safe: Yes
Safe with corals, clams, shrimp, and other invertebrates.
Care Level
Easy to Moderate
A hardy, beginner-friendly species when provided with stable water parameters, hiding places, and a proper diet.
Compatibility Notes
Compatible with other peaceful reef fish such as gobies, blennies, clownfish, firefish, and small wrasses. Avoid aggressive or overly boisterous species that may intimidate them.
Fun Fact
Flame Cardinalfish are mouthbrooders — males carry fertilized eggs in their mouths until they hatch, making them fascinating to observe in a well-established aquarium.