Spotfin Cardinalfish

The Spotfin Cardinalfish is a distinctive species characterized by its horizontal striped body pattern combined with prominent spots on the dorsal and anal fins. These fin markings give the species its common name and create an attractive pattern that sets it apart from other cardinalfish. The body displays alternating light and dark horizontal stripes in shades of silver, brown, and cream, providing both beauty and effective camouflage among reef structures.

This species is distributed throughout the Western Pacific, from southern Japan through Indonesia and the Philippines. It inhabits coastal reefs, lagoons, and harbors where it forms loose schools near coral formations and rocky substrates. The Spotfin Cardinalfish is often found in slightly turbid waters and shows remarkable adaptability to varying environmental conditions.

In the aquarium, the Spotfin Cardinalfish is a hardy and undemanding species that makes an excellent addition to community reef tanks. It adapts quickly to captive conditions, readily accepts prepared foods, and displays attractive schooling behavior when kept in groups. Its moderate size and peaceful temperament make it compatible with a wide range of reef-safe tankmates.