Approx Max Length : 6cm

Cardinal Brachyrhaphis - Brachyrhaphis roseni Fish Profile & Care Guide

Cardinal Brachys (Brachyrhaphis roseni) are an uncommon yet fascinating fish species in the aquarium hobby. Boasting dynamic personalities and captivating behaviours, these active, fast-swimming specimens are sure to steal the show in any aquarium. However, Cardinal Brachys' occasional aggressive and cannibalistic behaviours make them better suited for the advanced aquarist.

It's essential to keep Cardinal Brachys in a species-only tank or with fish of similar temperaments, as they have a propensity for nipping at other fish, including Corydoras Catfish. Suitable tankmates for these fish may encompass smaller Cichlid species and fast-swimming Tetras. However, it is advisable to exercise caution when considering other Livebearers as potential companions, as they tend to exhibit a more robust disposition, which can be potentially disruptive to similar species.

Males will vigorously court females, while even females display the occasional sparring match. While Cardinal Brachys are hardy and relatively easy to maintain, it's crucial to house them in groups of at least six individuals, as they are schooling fish. Additionally, maintaining a higher ratio of females to males is advisable to foster a harmonious environment.

The aquarium arrangement should incorporate open areas conducive to unhindered swimming and strategically positioned shelters, such as driftwood, thicket formations, and decorative elements, to afford the fish opportunities for concealment and security. To emulate the natural habitat of these fish, careful organization of water flow and aeration is advisable. When configuring the aquarium, it is worth noting that these fish are known to leap above the water's surface; thus, it is recommended to equip the aquarium with a secure lid. Furthermore, a robust filtration system and a routine regimen of organic waste removal are imperative to maintain water quality and sustain a healthy aquatic environment.

Their pale brown body colour, coupled with a striking orangey-red dorsal fin banded in black and an orange hue on the front of the anal fin with a black bar, make for an attractive display. Males have a two-toned yellow and black gonopodium, with a black bar running down the body, while both males and females have seven or eight faint vertical stripes along the anterior part of their body, edged in black and displaying a lace-like pattern. The opposing black and orange markings make this fish one of the most vibrant wild-type livebearers available.

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Photos

Sexual Dimorphism

Discerning male Cardinal Brachys from females is a relatively uncomplicated task. Male specimens can be identified by their comparatively slender physique, possession of a crimson dorsal fin, the presence of a gonopodium, and slightly smaller stature. In contrast, females exhibit a larger physique, lack the gonopodium, and exhibit an iridescent whitish-blue edge on their dorsal and caudal fins.

Male Female

Quick Facts

Scientific Name	Brachyrhaphis roseni
Year Described	1988
Other Names	Cardinal Brachy, Olomina
Kingdom	Animalia
Classification	Actinopterygii
Order	Cyprinodontiformes
Family	Poeciliidae
Genus	Brachyrhaphis
Origins
Approx Max Size	6 cm
Temperament	Semi-Aggressive
Aquarium Level	All Levels
Difficulty	Intermediate - Advanced
Shoaling	Yes
Best kept as	Groups 6+
Diet & Feeding	Omnivore
Reproduction	Livebearer
Average Lifespan	Up to 3 Years

Water Parameters

Water Type	Freshwater
pH	6.5 - 8.0
GH	5 - 20

Ideal Temperature Range
℉	71 - 86
℃	21 - 30

Natural Habitat

Cardinal Brachys is found exclusively in the verdant habitats of Costa Rica and Panama in Central America. These lively fish flourish in the shallower reaches of rivers, creeks, and streams characterized by gentle to moderately paced currents. Typically, they inhabit the surface or midwater regions, often in proximity to rocky formations, boulders, and abundant aquatic vegetation. Inhabiting densely planted areas, they form a stunning contrast against the backdrop of their natural habitat.

Breeding

Breeding Cardinal Brachys is a straightforward endeavour as these fish are remarkably fecund. Nonetheless, raising the fry poses some challenges, as their proclivity for cannibalism towards their offspring is pronounced. These specimens' gestation period typically lasts approximately a month, yielding a brood ranging from 25 to 50 fry.

To safeguard the survival of the fry, females should be housed in a densely planted aquarium, providing the fry with adequate cover until they can be removed from their parents' reach. Should any fry be successfully saved, a daily diet comprising finely crushed flake food and baby brine shrimp is recommended. At the age of one month, the fry can transition to more substantial flake foods, while at three months old, they can be fed the same diet as adult specimens, exhibiting their characteristic colours and markings.

Diet & Feeding

As omnivores, Cardinal Brachys display an insatiable appetite, devouring a diverse range of foods with gusto. Their diet is inclusive of live and frozen comestibles such as fruit flies, bloodworms, brine shrimp, and white worms, while they also demonstrate a keenness for high-quality dried foods like flakes, pellets, and wafers.