Cooktown Cardinalfish

The Cooktown Cardinalfish is a robust and attractive species characterized by its silvery body decorated with scattered dark spots and subtle lateral markings. Named after the town of Cooktown in Queensland, Australia, this species is widespread across the Western Pacific, where it inhabits coral reef environments, rocky outcrops, and sheltered lagoons. It is a common sight on the Great Barrier Reef and surrounding waters, often found in loose aggregations near protective reef structures.

This species is one of the hardiest cardinalfish available in the aquarium trade, making it an excellent choice for marine beginners. The Cooktown Cardinalfish adapts rapidly to captive conditions, is disease-resistant, and readily accepts a broad range of prepared foods from the very first day. It thrives in groups and will form attractive schools that hover near favored sections of the reef structure. A minimum tank size of 30 gallons is recommended to accommodate a small group comfortably.

Fully reef-safe and completely peaceful, the Cooktown Cardinalfish is a model community aquarium citizen. It will not bother corals, invertebrates, or other fish, and its calm disposition means it can be paired with virtually any non-aggressive tankmate. This species is particularly valued for its hardiness and adaptability, making it a reliable and trouble-free addition to both new and established reef systems.