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Apogon Parvulus - Red Spotted Cardinal
The Red Spotted Cardinalfish (Apogon parvulus) is a powerhouse addition to any marine reef aquarium, blending high-impact aesthetics with essential utility. Featuring a shimmering, translucent body accented by a brilliant red spot, this species is a master of the "Answering Machine" era of fish keeping—serving as a natural biological control by filling the mid-water column with peaceful, schooling energy. It is a dedicated consumer of micro-particulates, making it a functional cornerstone of a healthy reef ecosystem.
Quick Specs
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Minimum Tank Size: 30 Gallons
Diet: Carnivore (Planktivore)
Reef Compatible: Yes
Max Size: 1.5 Inches
Water Conditions: 72-78°F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Husbandry Notes The Red Spotted Cardinalfish is a strategic choice for hobbyists looking for "kinetic schooling behavior" in nano or medium reef systems. Its unique transparency and synchronized movement add a layer of visual depth that few other species can match. In the context of modern reef keeping, it is widely considered an essential "utility fish" for social stability. For maximum success, keep in groups of 5+ and provide multiple daily feedings of high-quality frozen foods.
Expert Shipping & Logistics We’ve dialed in the logistics for national Overnight Delivery from our Chicago-area facility to ensure your livestock arrives in peak condition. Every order is packed using professional-grade insulation and climate-contingent heat or ice packs. We handle the technical side of the move so you can focus on the acclimation. Our protocol is built on getting these fish from the facility to your tank with zero compromise on health.
The Red Spotted Cardinalfish (Apogon parvulus) is a powerhouse addition to any marine reef aquarium, blending high-impact aesthetics with essential utility. Featuring a shimmering, translucent body accented by a brilliant red spot, this species is a master of the "Answering Machine" era of fish keeping—serving as a natural biological control by filling the mid-water column with peaceful, schooling energy. It is a dedicated consumer of micro-particulates, making it a functional cornerstone of a healthy reef ecosystem.
Quick Specs
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Minimum Tank Size: 30 Gallons
Diet: Carnivore (Planktivore)
Reef Compatible: Yes
Max Size: 1.5 Inches
Water Conditions: 72-78°F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Husbandry Notes The Red Spotted Cardinalfish is a strategic choice for hobbyists looking for "kinetic schooling behavior" in nano or medium reef systems. Its unique transparency and synchronized movement add a layer of visual depth that few other species can match. In the context of modern reef keeping, it is widely considered an essential "utility fish" for social stability. For maximum success, keep in groups of 5+ and provide multiple daily feedings of high-quality frozen foods.
Expert Shipping & Logistics We’ve dialed in the logistics for national Overnight Delivery from our Chicago-area facility to ensure your livestock arrives in peak condition. Every order is packed using professional-grade insulation and climate-contingent heat or ice packs. We handle the technical side of the move so you can focus on the acclimation. Our protocol is built on getting these fish from the facility to your tank with zero compromise on health.
