Sydney Cardinalfish

The Sydney Cardinalfish (Apogon limenus) is a peaceful species that is reef-safe with caution, admired for its delicate body shape, translucent silvery coloration with subtle vertical bands, moderate size, and nocturnal behavior. Males typically develop a larger mouth during breeding and are known to mouthbrood the eggs, while females and juveniles have a slimmer profile with less pronounced head features. 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, temperature ~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.