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Basics

Scientific Name: Sphaeramia nematoptera

Family: Apogonidae

Origin: Western Pacific, Java, Fiji, Indonesia, Sri Lanka

Quick Facts

• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Lifespan: 5 years, possibly longer
• Reef Compatible: Yes
• Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
• Maximum Size: 3-3 1/2"
• Diet: Carnivore
• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons

Overview

The Pajama Cardinalfish gets its name from its interesting coloring. The front half is yellow or green with crimson eyes and the middle has a thick black bar followed by the posterior end which is a white base with orange or brown polka dots that look like pajama pants. 

Since it is a schooling fish, it should be kept in a group with other members of its own species. It isn't a particularly fast swimmer so if kept in a community tank the other fish should also be peaceful in nature, and it should be given plenty of hiding places within the aquarium. They can be kept in a reef tank and won't bother invertebrates. It can eat live, frozen, pellet or flake food and should be given a varied, meaty diet.