Red Stop Light Cardinalfish
Fowleria flammea
Saltwater Fish
Species Group: Cardinalfish
Family: Apogonidae
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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 Red Stop Light Cardinalfish
General information
The Red Stop Light Cardinalfish, or Flame Cardinalfish, is a popular species for both beginner and experienced aquarium enthusiasts. They are a small fish species, typically reaching a maximum size of around 3 inches (8 cm). They have a bright red body with a distinctive black spot on their tail. These fish are generally peaceful and can be kept in small groups of 3-5 individuals.
Diet & nutrition
In their natural habitat, Red Stop Light Cardinalfish feed on small crustaceans and plankton. In captivity, they can be fed a varied diet consisting of high-quality flakes, pellets, frozen or live food such as brine shrimp, krill, and chopped seafood.
Determining sex
Males tend to be larger and have a more elongated anal fin than females. During spawning, males will also develop a brighter red coloration.
Breeding & spawning
Breeding Red Stop Light Cardinalfish in captivity is challenging, but not impossible. They are egg layers and will require a separate breeding tank with plenty of hiding places. Spawning typically occurs in the early morning hours and the eggs will hatch within a few days.
Diseases
Red Stop Light Cardinalfish are generally hardy fish that are not susceptible to many common fish diseases. However, they can be affected by Ich, Velvet, and other parasitic infections. Keeping up with regular water changes and maintaining good water quality can help prevent these diseases.
Origination
Red Stop Light Cardinalfish are native to the Indo-Pacific region, including the waters around Indonesia and the Philippines.
Cautions
While Red Stop Light Cardinalfish are generally peaceful, they can become aggressive towards their own species if there is not enough space or hiding spots in the aquarium. They should be kept with other small, peaceful fish species.
Acclimation process
When introducing Red Stop Light Cardinalfish to a new aquarium, it is important to acclimate them slowly. This can be done by floating the bag they were transported in for around 15-20 minutes to allow the temperature to equalize. Then, gradually add small amounts of aquarium water to the bag every 5-10 minutes for about an hour before finally releasing them into the tank.
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