Fragile Cardinalfish (Zoramia fragilis)

Fish in the family Apogonidae. Moderate care. Reef Safe.

Fragile Cardinalfish

Quick facts

Scientific nameZoramia fragilis
FamilyApogonidae
Care levelModerate
Reef safetyReef Safe
TemperamentPeaceful
Dietcarnivore
Adult size4.5 in
Minimum tank size30 gallons
Water parametersTemperature: 72-78°F pH: 8.1-8.3 Salinity: 1.023-1.025
Feeding schedule2-3 times daily

Appearance

Small, slender cardinalfish with a predominantly silvery-white body and distinctive red or orange coloration on the head and anterior regions. Two large eyes are characteristic of the genus, adapted for low-light reef environments.

Diet and feeding

Feed small frozen or live foods such as mysis shrimp, copepods, and small crustaceans. In captivity, most specimens will accept frozen preparations. Feed 2–3 times daily in small portions to match natural grazing behavior in deeper reef zones.

Difficulty and care for the Fragile Cardinalfish

Moderate - Requires some experience due to specific dietary water or tank requirements. Best suited for intermediate aquarists.

Common health issues

Marine ich, Fin rot, Swim bladder disorder, Bacterial infections, Parasitic infestations

Origin and habitat

Indo-Pacific region from Indonesia to the Philippines and surrounding areas, typically found in deeper reef environments.

Log Fragile Cardinalfish in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Fragile Cardinalfish alongside everything else in your reef.