Samoan Cardinalfish (Nectamia savayensis)

Fish in the family Apogonidae. Moderate care. Reef Safe.

Samoan Cardinalfish

Quick facts

Scientific nameNectamia savayensis
FamilyApogonidae
Care levelModerate
Reef safetyReef Safe
TemperamentPeaceful
Dietplanktivore
Adult size3.5 in
Minimum tank size20 gallons
Water parametersTemperature: 72-78°F pH: 8.1-8.3 Salinity: 1.02-1.026
Feeding scheduleFeed 2-3 times daily

Appearance

Small, slender cardinalfish with a bicolored body: the front half is pale yellow-white and the rear half is deep red to burgundy. Large eyes and a terminal mouth are characteristic of the genus.

Diet and feeding

Zooplankton, copepods, small crustaceans, marine algae in both wild and aquarium settings.

Difficulty and care for the Samoan 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 infections, Fungal diseases

Origin and habitat

Indo-Pacific, from the Great Barrier Reef to Samoa and the Marshall Islands.

Log Samoan 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 Samoan Cardinalfish alongside everything else in your reef.