Longspine Cardinalfish

Care Summary

The Longspine Cardinalfish is a schooling species that looks best in groups of five or more; in a 30+ gallon reef a small school creates a shimmering, tightly coordinated effect. They are peaceful, reef-safe, and will not bother corals or inverts; their main value is as a schooling display fish rather than for any functional role in the tank. Feed frozen mysis and small meaty foods twice daily; they are not aggressive feeders so target the school directly and ensure they are not being outcompeted by faster, pushier tankmates. Like Banggai Cardinals they are mouthbrooders; males carry the eggs and fry in their mouths, and breeding in captivity is achievable without special setup changes.