Threadfin Cardinal – Central Pacific (Zoramia leptacantha)

Quick Stats:

• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet: Omnivore
• Reef Safe: Yes
• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
• Max Size: 3 inches
• Water Parameters: pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.020-1.025, Temperature 75-80°F

Comprehensive Guide – Threadfin Cardinal

The Threadfin Cardinal, known as Zoramia leptacantha, is a popular saltwater fish species for aquarium enthusiasts. This comprehensive guide will cover various aspects of keeping Threadfin Cardinals in a saltwater aquarium.

Habitat

The Threadfin Cardinal is native to the Central Pacific region, specifically found in Fiji, Tonga, and Samoa. They inhabit coral reefs and are commonly found in shallow lagoons and reef flats.

Reef Safe

The Threadfin Cardinal is considered reef-safe, making it an excellent choice for reef aquariums. They do not harm corals or other invertebrates, making them a peaceful addition to a reef community.

Size

The Threadfin Cardinal grows up to 3 inches long, making it a small-sized fish suitable for smaller aquariums.

Temperament

These fish are peaceful and generally non-aggressive towards other tankmates. They can be kept in groups or pairs, but it is important to provide ample hiding spaces to reduce aggression within the group.

Sexual Dimorphism

There are no visible differences between male and female Threadfin Cardinals, making it difficult to determine their gender without observing their behavior during spawning.

Lifespan

The average lifespan of Threadfin Cardinals in captivity is around 5-7 years, given proper care and a suitable environment.

Diet in Aquariums

Threadfin Cardinals are omnivores and have a varied diet. In the wild, they primarily feed on small crustaceans and zooplankton. In an aquarium, they can be fed a combination of high-quality flakes, pellets, frozen foods (such as brine shrimp and mysis shrimp), and live foods (such as small worms and copepods).

Aquascaping Recommendations

When setting up the aquarium for Threadfin Cardinals, providing plenty of hiding places, such as live rock formations or coral structures, is important. These fish appreciate a well-established reef environment with ample swimming space.

Captive Bred Availability

The Threadfin Cardinal is occasionally available as captive-bred specimens. Captive-bred fish are generally hardier and more adaptable to aquarium conditions than wild-caught specimens. Check with reputable aquarium stores or breeders for availability.

Compatibility with Other Fish, Invertebrates, or Corals

Threadfin Cardinals are compatible with many peaceful fish, invertebrates, and corals. Here are five specific tankmates that make good choices when keeping Threadfin Cardinals:

1. Clownfish – Clownfish are known for their peaceful nature and can coexist with Threadfin Cardinals without any issues.
2. Gobies – Gobies are small, peaceful fish that make excellent tankmates for Threadfin Cardinals.
3. Firefish – Firefish have vibrant colors and peaceful behavior, making them a great addition to a community aquarium.
4. Cleaner Shrimp – Cleaner shrimp can help maintain the health of your aquarium by removing parasites from other fish.
5. Zoanthids – Threadfin Cardinals are reef-safe, and Zoanthids are colorful and hardy coral species that can thrive alongside them.

Other Common Names

The Threadfin Cardinal is also known by other common names such as Threadfin Cardinalfish and Threadfin Cardinalfishlet.

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Popular Questions and Answers

Q: What is the ideal tank size for Threadfin Cardinals?

A: The minimum tank size recommended for Threadfin Cardinals is 30 gallons. However, larger tanks provide more swimming space and allow for a greater number of tankmates.

Q: Can Threadfin Cardinals be kept in pairs?

A: Threadfin Cardinals can be kept in pairs or small groups. However, it is important to provide ample hiding spaces to reduce aggression within the group.

Q: Do Threadfin Cardinals require a specific lighting setup in the aquarium?

A: Threadfin Cardinals do not have specific lighting requirements. They can thrive under standard aquarium lighting conditions.

Q: Are Threadfin Cardinals suitable for beginner hobbyists?

A: Threadfin Cardinals are suitable for beginner hobbyists due to their easy care requirements and peaceful temperament.

Q: Can Threadfin Cardinals be kept in a reef aquarium?

A: Yes, Threadfin Cardinals are reef-safe and can be kept in a reef aquarium without causing harm to corals or other invertebrates.