Banggai cardinalfish

The Banggai cardinalfish (family Apogonidae) is endemic to the Banggai Islands of Indonesia, where it lives in shallow, sheltered waters often among sea urchin spines. It is unmistakable, with a silvery body bearing bold black bars, elongated fins, and a scattering of white spots. It is a slow-moving, peaceful fish that forms loose groups in the wild and can be kept singly, as a pair, or in a small group in a calm aquarium. A peaceful reef tank with branching structure or urchins for shelter suits it well. It is a carnivore that feeds on small zooplankton and readily takes mysis and other meaty frozen foods. It is notable as a paternal mouthbrooder: the male incubates the eggs and later the fry in his mouth, releasing fully formed juveniles, which makes captive breeding practical. Its ease of care and breeding make it suitable for many marine keepers.