Kaudern's Cardinal

Special requirements

• Conspecific Aggression

  Exhibits aggressive behavior toward members of its own species. Unless a mated pair is established, they should generally be kept individually in smaller systems.

• Paternal Mouthbrooding

  The male incubates the eggs and holds the larvae in his mouth for several weeks, during which time he may not feed.

• Symbiotic Protection

  Naturally associates with long-spined sea urchins (Diadema setosum) or anemones for protection; providing similar vertical structure or rockwork caves is essential.

• Direct Development

  Unlike most marine fish, they have no planktonic larval stage; juveniles emerge from the male's mouth as fully formed miniature versions of the adults.