Banggai Cardinalfish (Pterapogon kauderni)
Pterapogon kauderni
Origin: Banggai Islands, Indonesia
Water Parameters
Quick Stats
- Max Size
- 8 cm
- Min Tank
- 80 L
- Lifespan
- 4-5
- Swimming Level
- middle
- Schooling
- Yes (5+)
- Diet
- Carnivore — mysis shrimp, copepods, small marine meaty foods
- Temperament
- Peaceful; mild intraspecific aggression in pairs; generally reef-safe
About
The Banggai Cardinalfish is one of the most popular marine aquarium fish, recognised by its dramatic black and white striped patterning and long flowing fins. It is a paternal mouthbrooder, with the male incubating eggs in his mouth. Captive-bred specimens are strongly preferred to support conservation of the critically endangered wild population.
Care Guide
Keep in groups of 5+ with a dominant mated pair. Provide branching corals or Diadema urchin spines for shelter — they associate closely with these in the wild. Feed mysis shrimp, copepods, and small marine meaty foods. Captive-bred specimens adapt easily to frozen foods. Avoid large aggressive tankmates.
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