Apogon maculatus

The flamefish can grow to a size of 6–11.1 cm (2.4–4.4 in), depending on its environment.^[2] The body of the flamefish is reddish-orange with small spots of black, and a large dark area on its tail.^[3] The color combination is similar to fire, which gives the fish its name.^[3] A long black stripe is present on the fish's snout.^[4] Within the flamefish's scales, there are small comb-like spines for protection and flexibility.^[5] Additionally, it has pre-dorsal scales that protect its gills.^[5] The flamefish also has around 11-13 pectoral fins that help in changing direction and speed.^[5]

The flamefish is usually found in the waters of the Western Atlantic Ocean.^[3] It primarily resides near the Gulf of Mexico, Florida, and the Caribbeans.^[6] However, the flamefish has also been reported in Canada, Massachusetts, Bermuda, the Bahamas, and Brazil.^[6]

Due to its small size, the flamefish hides from predators within coral reefs.^[3] Since coral reefs have abundant resources, they have become a popular mating site for flamefish.^[3]

The flamefish participates in oral brooding or oral incubation.^[2] After the female lays eggs, a male will fertilize them and keep the eggs in its mouth.^[2] Although, the male flamefish's mouth is relatively protective, stress may decrease its parental care.^[2]

In captivity the fish's color tends to fade unless it's fed color enhancing vitamins. It grows to a size of 11 centimetres (4.3 inches) in captivity.^[7] This fish can be aggressive towards other cardinalfish.^[7] Only one should be kept in a tank, unless it is a mated pairs. Two flamefish are suggested to be placed in a 55 imperial gallons (250 L) or larger tank.^[7] Otherwise it does well with peaceful tank mates as long as it has caves and places to hide.^[8] The ideal water conditions are temperatures of 72–78 °F (22–26 °C), with a pH of 8.1 to 8.4, sg 1.020–1.025, and dKH at 8 to 12.^[7] The flamefish occasionally makes its way into the aquarium trade because of its uniqueness.

The flamefish thrives in aquariums with only fish.^[8] Rocks and hiding areas are necessary to help the flamefish feel safe.^[8] If felt threatened by another tank fish, the flamefish may remain dormant by hiding during the day.^[8] In captivity, the flamefish eats minced crustaceans and clams daily.^[8] Some suggest that the flamefish should be fed in the early morning and evening.^[8]