Tailspot Cardinalfish

The Tailspot Cardinalfish (Apogon dovii) is a peaceful species that is reef-safe with caution, admired for its distinctive tail spot marking, sleek body shape, subtle coloration, and moderate size. Males typically develop a broader head and engage in mouthbrooding to protect their eggs, while females and juveniles have a more streamlined appearance with less prominent 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, caves, and hiding spots, 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 quality marine pellets or frozen foods. With proper care, this fish makes a peaceful and visually appealing addition to reef or 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.