Small Cardinalfish (Apogon parvulus)
Fish in the family Apogonidae. Moderate care. Reef Safe.
Quick facts
Appearance
Apogon parvulus is a small, slender cardinalfish with a reddish-orange to deep red coloration throughout its body. It has two dorsal fins, large eyes characteristic of nocturnal species, and a slightly compressed body shape. A faint dark stripe may run through the eye region.
Diet and feeding
Feed small meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, copepods, and finely chopped marine flesh. In captivity, it readily accepts frozen foods; offer small portions 2–3 times daily to match its natural nocturnal feeding behavior.
Difficulty and care for the Small Cardinalfish
Small Cardinalfish are moderately hardy once established, but require careful acclimation and stable water conditions. Their nocturnal nature and tendency to hide make them less visible than many reef fish, and they may take time to adjust to captive feeding routines.
Common health issues
Ich, bacterial infections, parasitic infections
Origin and habitat
Indo-Pacific region, including the Great Barrier Reef and surrounding coral reef systems from Indonesia to Australia and the Philippines.
Log Small 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 Small Cardinalfish alongside everything else in your reef.
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