Common name: Iridescent cardinalfish
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.
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyCardinalfishApogonidae
- GenusCardinalfishPristiapogon
- SpeciesIridescent cardinalfishPristiapogon kallopterus (Bleeker, 1856)
- SynonymsApogon fraenatus yaeyamaensis Aoyagi, 1943Apogon frenatus yaeyamaensis Aoyagi, 1943Apogon kallopterus Bleeker, 1856Apogon snyderi Jordan & Evermann, 1903Pristiapogon 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.