Sailfin Cardinalfish (Pterapogon mirifica)
Fish in the family Apogonidae. Moderate care. Reef Safe.
Quick facts
Appearance
A striking cardinalfish with a tall, sail-like dorsal fin and deep red coloration. The body is streamlined with a pointed snout, and the dorsal and anal fins are enlarged and fan-shaped, particularly prominent in males.
Diet and feeding
Feed small live or frozen meaty foods including copepods, small shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. Offer food 2–3 times daily in small portions, as this is a planktivore in the wild.
Difficulty and care for the Sailfin 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 disorder, Bacterial septicaemia, Velvet disease
Origin and habitat
Indo-Pacific from the Philippines to Papua New Guinea and the Great Barrier Reef region.
Log Sailfin 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 Sailfin Cardinalfish alongside everything else in your reef.
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