Pajama Cardinalfish (Sphaeramia nematoptera)
Fish in the family Apogonidae. Beginner care. Reef Safe.
Quick facts
Appearance
A small, elongated cardinalfish with two distinct body regions: the anterior half is bright orange-red, while the posterior half is white with bold vertical dark stripes, giving it a distinctive "pajama" pattern.
Diet and feeding
Feed small meaty foods including frozen mysis shrimp, frozen copepods, and small live foods. In established aquaria with pod populations, they will hunt naturally; otherwise, offer food items sized to fit in their small mouths 1–2 times daily.
Difficulty and care for the Pajama Cardinalfish
Moderate - Requires some experience due to specific dietary water or tank requirements. Best suited for intermediate aquarists.
Common health issues
Marine ich, Fin Rot, Swim Bladder Disease, Hole-in-the-Head disease, Bacterial Infections
Origin and habitat
Indo-Pacific region from Indonesia to the Philippines and Great Barrier Reef.
Log Pajama Cardinalfish in your reef tank
Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Pajama Cardinalfish alongside everything else in your reef.
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