Half-Lined Cardinalfish (Apogon semilineatus)
Fish in the family Apogonidae. Moderate care. Reef Safe.
Quick facts
Appearance
The Half-Lined Cardinalfish is a small, slender fish with a reddish-orange body and distinctive dark stripe running laterally along the head and anterior body. Two prominent dark eye-like spots (ocelli) on the dorsal fin base are characteristic. The fish has a somewhat elongated, compressed body typical of the cardinalfish family.
Diet and feeding
Feed small meaty foods including mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped fish flesh. May accept small prepared carnivore pellets. Feed 2–3 times daily with small portions, as cardinalfish are nocturnal and feed at night but will accept daytime offerings in established tanks.
Difficulty and care for the Half-Lined Cardinalfish
Moderately difficult. While hardy once acclimated, these nocturnal fish are sensitive to strong water flow and sudden changes in lighting. They require stable conditions and may be outcompeted for food by more aggressive species.
Common health issues
Marine Ich, Fin Rot, Swim Bladder Disorder, Bacterial Infections, Parasitic Infestations
Origin and habitat
Indo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea, East Africa, and extending to the Philippines and Indonesia.
Log Half-Lined 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 Half-Lined Cardinalfish alongside everything else in your reef.
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