Long-Finned Cardinalfish (Archamia macroptera)
Fish in the family Apogonidae. Moderate care. Reef Safe.
Quick facts
Appearance
Archamia macroptera is a small cardinalfish with an elongated, laterally compressed body. It displays reddish to dusky coloration with two distinct dark stripes running along the body, and characteristically elongated dorsal and anal fins that give the species its "long-finned" common name. The species has large eyes typical of nocturnal apogonids.
Diet and feeding
Feed small frozen foods including mysis shrimp, copepods, and brine shrimp. This species is a nocturnal planktivore-carnivore and may be reluctant to eat during the day; offer food at dusk or use low lighting to encourage feeding.
Difficulty and care for the Long-Finned Cardinalfish
Archamia macroptera is moderately difficult, requiring stable water conditions, nocturnal feeding habits, and peaceful tankmates. They are best suited for experienced aquarists comfortable with low-light reef setups and careful feeding protocols.
Common health issues
Poor feeding response, secondary bacterial infections if stressed, parasites under poor water quality conditions
Origin and habitat
Indo-Pacific region, including the Philippines, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea, typically found in coral reef environments and lagoons at depths of 5-50 meters.
Log Long-Finned 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 Long-Finned Cardinalfish alongside everything else in your reef.
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