Pajama Cardinal (Captive Bred) Also known as Spotted Cardinalfish, Polkadot Cardinalfish The Pajama Cardinal is a charming and distinctive species displaying a unique color pattern that resembles pajamas, with a yellow-green front, dark vertical band at mid-body, and white rear covered in orange-red spots. This hardy and peaceful cardinalfish is an excellent choice for beginners and thrives in groups. Key Features Scientific Name: Sphaeramia nematoptera Common Names: Pajama Cardinalfish, Spotted Cardinalfish, Polkadot Cardinalfish Adult Size: Up to 3.5 inches Lifespan: 3-5 years with proper care Temperament: Very peaceful and social; does best in groups Reef Compatibility: Completely reef safe; will not harm corals or invertebrates Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons minimum; 40 gallons preferred for groups Experience Level: Beginner; extremely hardy and easy to maintain Habitat & Tank Requirements Tank Environment: Provide abundant hiding places with live rock, caves, and sheltered areas. This species forms loose aggregations and appreciates multiple retreat spots. Prefers areas with gentle water flow. Water Parameters: Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C) Salinity: 1.020-1.025 pH: 8.1-8.4 Very tolerant of typical reef conditions Equipment Recommendations: Standard filtration system Protein skimmer Gentle to moderate water circulation These maintain healthy conditions for this adaptable species. Diet & Feeding Pajama Cardinals are carnivores with excellent appetites. Recommended foods include: Staples: High-quality marine pellets, carnivore pellets Frozen Foods: Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, cyclops, copepods, finely chopped seafood Live Foods: Live brine shrimp (rarely necessary; readily accepts frozen) Feeding Frequency: Once or twice daily Special Note: Extremely easy to feed; accepts virtually all meaty foods Social Structure & Group Dynamics Best Kept in Groups: Naturally schools; 3-6 individuals create natural behavior Pairing Behavior: Will pair off for breeding within groups Very Peaceful: Non-aggressive toward all tankmates including conspecifics Introduce Simultaneously: Groups establish better when added together Notes & Considerations One of the hardiest and most beginner-friendly marine fish available. Captive-bred specimens are widely available, hardy, and already adapted to aquarium foods. The distinctive “pajama” pattern makes them instantly recognizable and endearing. Males are mouth-brooders and may breed readily in home aquariums. Primarily nocturnal but will be active during the day, especially at feeding time. Slow-moving and peaceful; ensure they receive adequate food in tanks with aggressive feeders. Often forms tight groups during the day, spreading out at night to feed. Excellent for peaceful community reef tanks and suitable for nano aquariums. Very hardy and disease-resistant, especially captive-bred specimens. Generally hovers near caves or under ledges during the day. Does not require special lighting or water flow conditions. Why Choose a Quarantined Pajama Cardinal (Captive Bred)? Purchasing a quarantined, captive-bred specimen from us means you’re starting with a healthier, better-acclimated fish that has never known the stress of wild collection. All fish are observed, treated as needed, and conditioned to accept prepared foods before sale, giving you a stronger chance of long-term success with this delightful and easy-to-keep species.
