Half-Barred Cardinalfish

The Half-Barred Cardinalfish (Fibramia thermalis) is a peaceful species that is reef-safe, admired for its distinctive half-barred vertical stripes along a silvery body, compact size, and calm temperament. Males typically exhibit slightly brighter coloration and may display more intense bars during breeding, while females and juveniles show softer hues with less prominent striping. They reach about 3 to 4 inches in adult size and should be housed in aquariums of at least 30 gallons.

Provide a sandy substrate with plenty of live rock, caves, and crevices for hiding, along with some open swimming areas. Maintain stable water parameters with salinity around 1.020-1.025, temperature between 72-79°F, and pH from 8.1-8.4. A secure lid is important since many cardinalfish are known jumpers.

Diet should consist of small meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, copepods, and high-quality pellets or flakes. With proper care, the Half-Barred Cardinalfish makes a peaceful and charming addition to reef and community marine aquariums.

International Aquatics Quarantine & Guarantee: All fish are checked by marine vets, given a formalin bath, and held for 14 days in copper-treated systems. We feed Selcon-soaked food with Kanaplex and Metroplex during quarantine. Unless marked, all livestock comes with our 15-Day Guarantee. You will receive a video of your fish eating before shipment. On request, we also send photos/videos after arrival at IA. Some species are import-to-order (3-10 business days). Many common species are already cleared or near the end of QT.

Several species will be import-to-order and may take anywhere from 3-10 business days to secure. Once your fish is secured, you will be notified, and the quarantine process will then begin.