Orbicular Cardinalfish (Sphaeramia orbicularis)

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

Orbicular Cardinalfish

Quick facts

Scientific nameSphaeramia orbicularis
FamilyApogonidae
Also known asOrbiculate Cardinalfish
Care levelModerate
Reef safetyReef Safe
TemperamentPeaceful
Dietcarnivore
Adult size3.5 in
Minimum tank size20 gallons
Water parametersTemperature: 72-78°F pH: 8-8.3 Salinity: 1.02-1.025
Feeding scheduleFeed 2-3 times daily

Appearance

A small, stocky cardinal fish with a distinctive red-orange body and white circular markings or bands. The head is proportionally large with a terminal mouth and nocturnal eye structure typical of Apogonidae.

Diet and feeding

Feed small frozen foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped meaty foods. Offer foods 2-3 times daily in small quantities, particularly at dusk or after lights dim, as they are primarily nocturnal feeders.

Difficulty and care for the Orbicular 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, Hole-in-the-Head, Bacterial Infections

Origin and habitat

Indo-Pacific from the Red Sea to Hawaii, typically found in deep reef environments and caves.

Log Orbicular 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 Orbicular Cardinalfish alongside everything else in your reef.