Pyjama Cardinalfish

Description

Pyjama Cardinalfish

Sphaeramia nematoptera

Origin: Indo-Pacific – Indonesia, Philippines, northern Australia

Size: Up to 8 cm

Reef Compatibility:

• Small Fish Safe: ✅ Yes
• Invert Safe: ✅ Yes
• Coral Safe: ✅ Yes

Diet: Carnivore – feeds on small meaty foods such as mysis, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood; readily accepts frozen preparations.

Care Level: Easy – hardy and suitable for beginner and intermediate reef tanks.

Aggression: Peaceful – prefers small groups; males may guard small territories during breeding.

Captive-Bred Available: ✅ Yes

Notes:

The Pyjama Cardinalfish is a peaceful, mid-water species distinguished by its silvery body with three bold vertical black stripes and bright red fins. It appreciates hiding places among rockwork or coral and is generally nocturnal but active at feeding times.

Why We Like It:

Compact, hardy, and strikingly patterned, the Pyjama Cardinalfish adds movement and contrast to the reef. Its peaceful nature and manageable size make it ideal for community tanks and beginner reefers.