User:Papa Armoon/Apogon maculatus

Overview:
Apogon maculatus, also referred to as the "flamefish", is a species of cardinalfish found in the Western Atlantic. Apogon maculatus usually hide in dark crevices and shadowy areas in order to stay hidden from larger predators and are a nocturnal species. The natural environment of this fish includes a mixture of seagrass beds, tidal pools and coral reefs at depths of up to 122 m (400 ft). As a predatory fish, they often emerge at night in schools and consume smaller fish and certain invertebrates like crabs and shrimp.

Reproduction:
This is one of very few species to exhibit "oral brooding", a form of reproduction where the male incubates the fertilized eggs in their mouth for several days before releasing hundreds of larvae into the ocean. Each larvae hatches between 2 mm and 4 mm long and will stay in a planktonic form for several weeks before growing into juveniles.

Domestication:
Commercial and personal aquariums tend to acquire this fish due to its unique appearance. This makes the fish largely available online for purchase and very available for anyone beginning their own collection. In captivity, color enhancing vitamins are used to ensure the fish stays it's vibrant colors outside of natural waters. Although this fish is small, growing to a length of 11 centimeters (4.3 in), this fish can still be aggressive towards other species of cardinalfish along with its own. Only one of these fish should be kept in the same tank unless placed in a mated pair or if the tank is 55 imperial gallons (250 L) or larger. The fish is friendly with other species in its tank as long as has places to hide like caves, crevices or other places. Ideal water temperature is 72-78 °F (22-26 °C), with a pH of 8.1 to 8.4. Also maintain a sg 1.020-1.025 and a dKH at 8 to 12.