Twospot Cardinalfish

The Twospot Cardinalfish (Apogon pseudomaculatus) is a peaceful species that is reef-safe, admired for its distinctive twin dark spots near the caudal peduncle, dusky body coloration, small size, and nocturnal habits. Males typically develop a broader jaw and are known for mouthbrooding behavior—carrying fertilized eggs in their mouths until hatching, while females/juveniles are slightly smaller and display less pronounced facial features. They reach about 2.5 to 3 inches in length and should be housed in aquariums of at least 20 gallons.

Provide ample live rock, caves, and hiding spots, along with stable water parameters (salinity ~1.020–1.025, temperature ~72–79°F, pH ~8.1–8.4), and a secure lid, as they may jump when startled.

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