Source: Wikimedia Commons
Pajama Cardinalfish
BeginnerSphaeramia nematoptera
Small marine fish with cute pajama-like polka dot pattern. Peaceful, hardy, beginner-friendly. Looks great in groups.
Difficulty
Beginner
Temperature
23〜26℃
Lifespan
3-5 years
Size
6-8cm
Diet
Pellets, frozen food
About
The pajama cardinalfish (Sphaeramia nematoptera), also called the spotted or polkadot cardinalfish, is a small fish of the family Apogonidae distributed through much of the western Pacific Ocean, from Java to Fiji and from the Ryukyu Islands south to the Great Barrier Reef. Its comically layered coloration — red eyes, a yellowish-green anterior body, a broad dark 'waistband', and a posterior half dusted with red spots — evokes the image of mismatched pajamas, hence its common name. Entirely peaceful and reef-safe, it is compatible with virtually all tankmates. A mouthbrooder, the male incubates eggs in his buccal cavity, making in-tank breeding observation possible. Easily kept in a 60-litre or larger aquarium; groups display natural shoaling behavior.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Basic Info
Origin
Western Pacific Ocean, from Java to Fiji and from the Ryukyu Islands to the Great Barrier Reef
Lifespan
3-5 years
Size
6-8cm
Temperature
23〜26℃
Diet
Pellets, frozen food
Care Guide
Tank
60L+
Compatibility
Care Specifications
- pH
- 8.1–8.4
- Water Temp.
- 22–26℃
- Specific Gravity
- 1.02–1.025
- Salinity
- 33–35 ppt
- Min. Tank
- 114 L
PeacefulReef safeGroup
Sources: LiveAquaria
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: br-choku editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not CITES-listed
Sources: CITES Appendices (species not listed) / 環境省 特定動物リスト / 環境省 特定外来生物等一覧
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Pajama Cardinalfish Listings
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