Spotted Cardinalfish (Sphaeramia nematoptera / Pyjama Cardinalfish)
The Spotted Cardinalfish is a peaceful and distinctive marine fish, instantly recognisable by its silver body covered in black spots, bold vertical black band, and vibrant orange rear half. Calm by nature and easy to care for, it is an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced reef aquarists.
Compatibility:
Peaceful. Excellent with clownfish, gobies, blennies, wrasses, dartfish, anthias, and other non-aggressive community species. Can be kept singly, as a bonded pair, or in groups in larger aquariums.
Reef Compatibility:
Reef-safe. Completely safe with corals and ornamental invertebrates, making it an ideal addition to mixed reef aquariums.
Diet:
Carnivore/Planktivore – feeds on zooplankton and small crustaceans. Readily accepts mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, copepods, finely chopped seafood, and high-quality marine pellets or flakes. Feed 1–2 times daily.
Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 24–27°C
- Salinity: 1.023–1.026 SG
- pH: 8.1–8.4
- Minimum Tank Size: 80L
Care Level:
Easy – a hardy and adaptable species that acclimates well to captive life, making it suitable for aquarists of all experience levels.
Top Tip:
Spotted Cardinalfish are naturally most active during dawn, dusk, and evening hours. Providing shaded areas and overhangs will help them feel secure and encourage more natural behaviour.