Care
The Red-spot Cardinalfish is known from current-swept rocky reefs, where it may be found in large aggregations at depths of 2-12m (6.6-39ft). This is a delicate species which is best kept in a mature reef aquarium, following very careful acclimatisation. The tank should be aquascaped with plenty of live rock, creating lots of shady hidey holes and overhangs (do ensure these are secure). The more places of safety available to these fish, the more you will see them out in the open, as they will learn that they can quickly retreat if necessary. Filtration should be efficient, with areas of brisk water movement, and some calmer resting spots out of the current. Red-spot Cardinalfish are a shoaling species and really should be maintained in small groups of at least 5-7 specimens, introduced simultaneously. Keeping these fish in decent numbers will not only make the fish less nervous, but will also result in a more effective, natural-looking display. It is important that tankmates are of a peaceful nature; they should not include large, carnivorous, or intimidating species (the latter which may prevent the cardinals from feeding). Unlike a number of their relatives, this species is not a threat towards other small fishes and crustaceans. As with many cardinals, these large-eyed fish are active during the evening/night, and a period of blue moon lighting will enable you to observe their antics more closely after the main tank lights have been switched off.
Feeding
Offer a variety of meaty items such as Mysis shrimp, vitamin-enriched brineshrimp, finely chopped krill etc. Feed small amounts 3 times per day, with at least one of the feeds after lights out.
Breeding
The Red-spot Cardinalfish has not been bred in the home aquarium. This species forms distinct pairs during courtship and spawning. The male fish will mouthbrood the egg mass until hatching. The larvae are then released into the water column, where they develop for some weeks before settling out of the plankton. Once released, there is no further parental care.
