Black Cardinalfish
The Black Cardinalfish comes from the reefs of Indonesia, and has a long slender shape with a mostly black body. The large black eyes are complemented by spots on the fins of similar size.
A 30-gallon or larger aquarium with a cave and peaceful tank mates is suitable for this slow and methodical swimmer. It tends to hide in sea grass or other plants, or may use long-spined urchins for camouflage. If a larger aquarium is available, it can handle a small group of this species. As a group, they will establish a strict hierarchy without aggressiveness.
The Black Cardinalfish requires a well-balanced diet of meaty foods such as enriched brine shrimp, enriched mysis shrimp, flake foods, and smaller marine pellet food.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Origin | Indonesia reefs |
| Size | Long and slender |
| Color | Mostly black with fin spots |
| Behavior | Slow, hides in plants or structures |
| Diet | Meaty foods: enriched brine shrimp, enriched mysis shrimp, flake food, marine pellets |
FAQ
What kind of tank setup is best for the Black Cardinalfish?
A 30-gallon or larger aquarium with a cave and plenty of hiding spots like sea grass or long-spined urchins is ideal for this fish.
Can Black Cardinalfish be kept in groups?
Yes, in a larger aquarium, they can be kept in small groups. They will establish a strict hierarchy but without aggression.
What do Black Cardinalfish eat?
They require a well-balanced diet of meaty foods such as enriched brine shrimp, enriched mysis shrimp, flake foods, and smaller marine pellet food.

Jane Walker –
The Black Cardinalfish is a calm and interesting addition to my reef tank. It hides well in the sea grass and only comes out when I feed it. I feed it enriched mysis shrimp twice a week and it stays active during feeding time. Very peaceful and doesn’t stress other fish.
Jason Morgan –
I kept one in a 40-gallon tank with peaceful tank mates. It uses the cave and sea grass for cover. Feeding it brine shrimp and flakes keeps it healthy. It’s not very active but looks striking with its black body and eye spots.
Joshua Greene –
The fish has adapted well to my tank. It hides during the day and emerges at feeding time. I appreciate how it doesn’t compete with other species. The diet is easy to maintain with a mix of enriched shrimp and flakes.