Seven Striped Cardinalfish

The Seven Striped Cardinalfish (Ostorhinchus novemfasciatus) is a peaceful species that is reef-safe, admired for its distinct horizontal striping, compact size, and nocturnal behavior. Males typically develop a more pronounced jawline during breeding season, which they use for mouthbrooding their eggs, while females/juveniles tend to have a more streamlined appearance and do not exhibit mouthbrooding behavior. They reach about 2.5 inches in length and should be housed in aquariums of at least 20 gallons.

Provide ample live rock with hiding spots, stable water parameters (salinity ~1.020–1.025, temp ~72–79°F, pH ~8.1–8.4), and a secure lid since many species are prone to jumping.

Diet should consist of mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, copepods, and high-quality marine pellets. With proper care, this fish makes a standout addition to the aquarium, especially in peaceful reef setups or nano tanks.

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.