Spotted Tail Cardinalfish

The Spotted Tail Cardinalfish (Apogon sp.) is a peaceful species that is reef-safe with caution, admired for its distinctive spotted tail pattern, subtle body coloration, moderate size, and nocturnal behavior. Males typically develop a slightly larger head and exhibit mouthbrooding behavior during breeding, while females/juveniles are smaller with less pronounced head features and more streamlined bodies. They reach about 3 to 4 inches in length and should be housed in aquariums of at least 30 gallons.

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

Diet should consist of mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, copepods, and high-quality marine pellets or frozen foods. With proper care, this fish makes a charming and peaceful addition to reef and marine community 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.