Common name: Iridescent cardinalfish

Scientific name: Pristiapogon kallopterus (Bleeker, 1856)
Iridescent Cardinalfish (Apogon Kallopterus) Near A Coral Reef; Kona, Island Of Hawaii, Hawaii, United States Of America

General information

The Pajama Cardinalfish, scientifically known as Pristiapogon kallopterus, is a popular choice among aquarists due to its striking appearance and peaceful demeanor. This species is easily recognized by its unique coloration: a silver body with a black 'mask' over the eyes, a yellow midsection, and polka-dotted caudal fin. They are nocturnal by nature and can often be seen hovering in groups during the day.

Details

Recommended minimum tank volume
75 liter (20 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
Temperature
24 to 28 °C (75 to 82 °F)
Acidity
pH 8.1 to 8.4
Average size
10 cm (4″)
Care level
Moderate to easy Prefers a well-oxygenated tank.
Diet
Omnivore Varied diet; accepts flakes and frozen.
Social
School Best in groups of 6+.
Reefsafe
Yes
Aggression
Peaceful
Captive bred
Yes Bred in home aquariums.
Conservation statusSource: IUCN Red List
ExtinctThreatenedLeastConcern

Taxonomy

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Chordates
    Chordata
  3. Class
    Ray-finned Fishes
    Actinopterygii
  4. Order
    Perch-like Fishes
    Perciformes
  5. Family
    Cardinalfish
    Apogonidae
  6. Genus
    Cardinalfish
    Pristiapogon
  7. Species
    Iridescent cardinalfish
    Pristiapogon kallopterus (Bleeker, 1856)
  8. Synonyms
    Apogon fraenatus yaeyamaensis Aoyagi, 1943
    Apogon frenatus yaeyamaensis Aoyagi, 1943
    Apogon kallopterus Bleeker, 1856
    Apogon snyderi Jordan & Evermann, 1903
    Pristiapogon snyderi (Jordan & Evermann, 1903)

Care

Pajama Cardinalfish are relatively easy to care for, making them suitable for both beginners and experienced hobbyists. They thrive in a well-established aquarium with plenty of hiding places and a peaceful community. These fish are not aggressive and can be kept with a variety of tank mates. They readily accept a wide range of foods, including frozen and live meaty foods, as well as high-quality prepared foods.

Reproduction

In the home aquarium, Pajama Cardinalfish can breed quite readily. They are mouthbrooders, with the male carrying the eggs in his mouth until they hatch. This fascinating reproductive behavior can be a point of interest for aquarists looking to observe the parental care of marine fish.

Habitat

Pristiapogon kallopterus is found in the Western Pacific, from the Indo-Australian Archipelago to Samoa, and north to Ryukyu Islands. They prefer sheltered reefs and lagoons, often found at depths of 1 to 18 meters. In the aquarium, replicating their natural environment with live rock structures and dim lighting can help these fish feel at home.