About Apogon maculatus (Poey, 1860)
Apogon maculatus, commonly called the flamefish, can reach a total length of 6 to 11.1 centimeters (2.4 to 4.4 inches), with size varying based on its environment. Its body is reddish-orange, marked with small black spots, a large dark patch on its tail, and a long black stripe across its snout. Its fire-like color pattern is the source of its common name. Each of its scales holds small comb-like spines that provide both protection and flexibility, and it also has pre-dorsal scales that protect its gills. It typically has 11 to 13 pectoral fins, which it uses to adjust its swimming direction and speed. The flamefish is native to the Western Atlantic Ocean. It is most commonly found near Florida, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Caribbean, but has also been recorded off the coasts of Canada, Massachusetts, Bermuda, the Bahamas, and Brazil. Due to its small adult size, the flamefish hides from predators inside coral reefs. Coral reefs also provide abundant resources, so they are a common mating site for this species. When kept in aquarium captivity, the flamefish's body color will fade unless it is fed color-enhancing vitamins. In captivity, it grows to around 11 centimeters (4.3 inches) long. This species can be aggressive towards other cardinalfish, so only one individual should be kept per tank unless the pair is mated. A mated pair of flamefish requires a tank of at least 55 imperial gallons (250 liters) or larger. Outside of conflicts with other cardinalfish, it coexists well with peaceful tank mates, as long as the tank provides caves and other hiding spots. The ideal water parameters for captive flamefish are a temperature of 72–78 °F (22–26 °C), a pH between 8.1 and 8.4, a specific gravity of 1.020–1.025, and a dKH of 8 to 12. Because of its distinct appearance, the flamefish is sometimes sold in the aquarium trade. It does best in fish-only aquariums, and requires rocks and hiding areas to feel secure. If it feels threatened by other fish in the tank, it will stay hidden and dormant during the day. In captivity, flamefish should be fed minced crustaceans and clams every day, and many keepers recommend feeding this species in the early morning and evening.
