Orbiculate Cardinalfish
Sphaeramia orbicularis
Saltwater Fish
Species Group: Cardinalfish
Family: Cardinalfish
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Water parameters
Temp
76-80 F
Temperature
Maintaining a stable and appropriate temperature is critical for the survival of aquatic life.
pH 7.8 - 8.4 potential of HydrogenMeasuring the acidity or alkalinity of water on a 0–14 scale, where 7 is neutral, 7 is alkaline.
NO3 1-20 ppm NitrateWhile less toxic than ammonia, high nitrate levels (above 40–80 ppm) are important to monitor because they can cause fish stress, stunted growth, and harmful algae blooms.
NO2 <0.0001 ppm NitriteIt is a highly toxic, intermediate compound in the nitrogen cycle produced from broken-down ammonia
PO4 0.01 - 0.1 ppm PhosphateIt is essential for plant development but must be managed, as excess levels trigger nuisance algae blooms and inhibit coral calcification.
NH3 <0.1 ppm AmmoniaIt is the primary killer of aquarium fish, causing gill damage, stress, and death
Ca 380 - 450 ppm CalciumSupporting the growth, skeletal structure, and shell formation of corals, mollusks, crustaceans, and coralline algae
KH 8 - 12 dKH AlkalinityIt acts as a shield, neutralizing acids to prevent dangerous pH "crashes" that can harm fish, corals, and plants.
Mg 1200 - 1400 ppm MagnesiumIt enables coral growth by supporting skeletal formation, assists in metabolic processes, and ensures that calcium is available for corals, clams, and coralline algae.
SG 1.023 - 1.026 SG SalinityEssential for maintaining stable, natural water parameters, proper osmoregulation, and stress-free environments for marine fish and corals
ORP 250 - 400 mV Oxidation-Reduction PotentialA higher positive mV indicates clean, oxygen-rich water with high water quality, while low readings indicate high pollution.
About Orbiculate Cardinalfish
General information
The Orbiculate Cardinalfish (Sphaeramia orbicularis) is a small, peaceful and colorful fish species that is popular among hobbyists. It typically grows up to 3 inches (7.6 cm) in length and has a round body shape with bright red coloration on its head and upper body, and yellow or orange coloration on its lower body. This species is suitable for smaller aquariums, as it can adapt well to different water conditions.
Diet & nutrition
The Orbiculate Cardinalfish is omnivorous and its diet should consist of a variety of small meaty and vegetable matter, such as brine shrimp, plankton, mysis shrimp, flake foods, and other prepared foods. It is important to provide a balanced diet to maintain its health.
Determining sex
There is no easy way to determine the sex of Orbiculate Cardinalfish visually. It is best to obtain a group of juveniles and allow them to pair off naturally.
Breeding & spawning
The Orbiculate Cardinalfish can breed in captivity, and it is best to provide a breeding pair with their own aquarium. The breeding process usually involves the female laying eggs in a nest made by the male, and then the male fertilizing them. The eggs will hatch after a few days, and the fry will need to be fed small amounts of food several times a day.
Diseases
The Orbiculate Cardinalfish is generally hardy and resistant to disease, but it is still susceptible to some common saltwater fish diseases, such as ich, velvet, and fin rot. It is important to keep the water quality high and provide a healthy diet to prevent disease outbreaks.
Origination
The Orbiculate Cardinalfish is native to the Indo-Pacific region, including the waters around Fiji, Indonesia, and the Philippines.
Cautions
The Orbiculate Cardinalfish is generally a peaceful species and can be kept with other non-aggressive fish species. However, it is important to provide hiding places and ample swimming space to reduce any potential territorial behavior.
Acclimation process
When introducing the Orbiculate Cardinalfish to a new aquarium, it is important to acclimate them slowly to prevent shock. This can be done by floating the bag with the fish in the aquarium for 10-15 minutes to allow the water temperature to adjust and then slowly adding small amounts of water from the aquarium to the bag over a period of several hours.
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