Pearl-Spotted Cardinalfish (Apogon margaritophorus)
Fish in the family Apogonidae. Moderate care. Reef Safe.
Quick facts
Appearance
A small, nocturnal cardinalfish with a reddish or pinkish body and distinctive dark spots or pearls covering the head and body, giving it the common name. The fish has large eyes adapted for low-light environments and a terminal mouth typical of the Apogonidae family.
Diet and feeding
Feeds on small crustaceans and zooplankton in the wild. In captivity, feed small live or frozen foods such as copepods, amphipods, mysis shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. May require frequent small meals due to its small mouth.
Difficulty and care for the Pearl-Spotted Cardinalfish
Moderate difficulty. The Pearl-Spotted Cardinalfish is hardy and peaceful but requires subdued lighting, stable water conditions, and appropriately sized foods. It is nocturnal and may hide during the day, so adequate shelter and low-light refugia are essential.
Common health issues
Ich, bacterial infections, malnutrition if not fed appropriately sized foods
Origin and habitat
Indo-Pacific region, including the Great Barrier Reef, Philippines, and Indonesia. Found in tropical coral reef environments at depths typically between 5–50 meters.
Log Pearl-Spotted 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 Pearl-Spotted Cardinalfish alongside everything else in your reef.
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