Speckled Fowler Cardinalfish

Fowleria Cardinalfish should be added to well-established marine aquariums with stable water parameters. Ample live rock with caves, crevices, and shaded ledges should be provided for resting and hiding, as this species prefers secure shelter during daylight hours. Providing a natural reef structure will help reduce stress and encourage natural behaviors. Speckled Fowleria Cardinalfish are peaceful schooling fish and can be maintained in small groups in larger aquariums. Keeping them in groups often increases confidence and encourages more natural shoaling behavior. They are slow, methodical swimmers that require adequate open space to hover and move comfortably. Always house them with other peaceful, non-aggressive tank mates. A varied diet of enriched meaty foods should be offered to ensure continued good health and coloration. Provide high-quality frozen options such as mysis shrimp, finely chopped marine meats, and other protein-rich preparations. Feeding small portions once or twice daily will help maintain optimal condition. Most Fowleria Cardinalfish are nocturnal, becoming more active in the evening while resting quietly among rockwork during the day. Some cardinalfish species are paternal mouth brooders, so researching species-specific reproductive behaviors is recommended if breeding occurs. The Speckled Fowler Cardinalfish is sometimes overlooked in the aquarium trade but is an attractive and hardy species. It displays a soft reddish to tan body covered in fine speckling, often accented with subtle darker markings that provide natural camouflage among reef structures. Adults typically grow to just under 3 inches in length.

We recommend a minimum aquarium size of 30 gallons or larger for this species.

Water conditions: Salinity 1.020 - 1.025, Temp (F) 72 - 78, pH 8.1 - 8.4, Alkalinity 8 - 12 dKH