Flame Cardinal
Apogon pseudomaculatus
| Stock | Variations | Price | Quantity | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Out of Stock | 2" or smaller - Caribbean | Original price was: $60.99.$31.99Current price is: $31.99. | Email me |
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Monday – Friday 8 AM – 9 PM
Saturday 12 PM – 4 PM
Sunday 12 PM – 9 PM
Healthy, stable animals from vetted suppliers — inspected before packing, shipped overnight. Decades of experience built this model so we can deliver premium livestock at 30%+ less than you'd pay elsewhere.
| Care Level | Easy |
|---|---|
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Reef Safe | Yes |
| Functional Benefit | Ornamental Only |
| Diet Type | Planktivore |
| Mininum Tank Size | 20 gallons |
| Max Size | 4 inches |
| Temperature | 72–78°F |
| pH Range | 8.1–8.4 |
| Specific Gravity | 1.022–1.025 |
The Flame Cardinal (Apogon pseudomaculatus), also commonly referred to as the Twospot Cardinalfish, is a small Western Atlantic cardinalfish that typically keeps close to rockwork and ledges. Its warm red-to-bronze body and dark “spot” markings read clearly even in mixed reef lighting, and it fits naturally into peaceful reef tank stocking plans.
What You’ll Observe:
- Hovering in place near caves and overhangs, especially during the day
- More open-water activity in the evening and after lights-out
- Quick, precise feeding strikes on small foods drifting in the water column
- A “home base” behavior where it returns to the same crevice repeatedly
- Occasional mouthbrooding behavior when a pair settles in
Provide a rockscape with multiple shaded pockets so your fish can choose a favorite resting spot while still feeling comfortable coming out to feed. Offer small meaty foods (like mysis, finely chopped seafood, and other plankton-sized options) in a few small portions, and consider a feeding around dusk to match its natural rhythm. In groups or pairs, extra hiding places help each fish establish its own space.
Why does my Flame Cardinal stay hidden under brighter lights?
Many cardinalfish spend the day tucked into shaded rockwork and become more visible at dusk; as they settle in, you’ll often see them “stage” closer to the entrance before venturing out.
How can I tell if mine is mouthbrooding?
Keepers often notice the fish holding its mouth slightly “full” and skipping regular bites; the fish usually stays near its chosen shelter while carrying.
What’s the easiest way to make sure it gets food in a community tank?
Target feed small, slow-sinking items near its rockwork zone, and use a few short feedings so it can grab multiple bites without needing to compete in open water.
Will it always be more active at night?
It’s common for cardinalfish to show their most confident swimming after the main lights go off; a dim ambient room light can make it easier to observe without changing its routine.
Can it live with ornamental shrimp if I feed it well?
Most hobbyists report the best consistency with larger, established shrimp; providing regular small meaty feedings helps the fish stay focused on offered foods rather than hunting.
Our selection process means you get robust, well-adjusted specimens that settle in quickly.
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