Banggai Cardinal (Wild Caught)
$39.99
Pterapogon kauderni
| Care Level | Easy |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive |
| Color Form | Black, White |
| Diet | Carnivore |
| Reef Compatible | Yes |
| Water Conditions | sg 1.020-1.025, 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4 |
| Max Size | 3″ |
| Family | Apogonidae |
| Minimum Tank Size | 30 gallons |
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Description
Overview
The Banggai cardinalfish (Pterapogon kauderni) is a small, unique marine fish native exclusively to the Banggai Archipelago in Indonesia. It is popular in the aquarium trade but is currently listed as endangered on the IUCN Red List due to over-collection and habitat destruction.Â
Key Characteristics
- Appearance: The fish has a shimmery, silver body with three bold, black vertical stripes and contrasting white dots that are unique to each individual. It has a distinctive tasseled first dorsal fin and elongated second dorsal, anal, and caudal fins.
- Size: It typically grows up to 3 inches (8 cm) in length.
- Habitat: In the wild, they inhabit shallow, calm waters, such as coral reefs and seagrass beds, often seeking protection among the spines of sea urchins or the tentacles of anemones.
- Behavior: Unlike most other cardinalfish, which are nocturnal, the Banggai cardinalfish is active during the day (diurnal). They form groups and are generally peaceful with other species, though males may show aggression toward each other, particularly when breeding.
- Diet: They are opportunistic carnivores, feeding primarily on copepods, marine worms, mollusks, and fish larvae.Â
Reproduction
The Banggai cardinalfish is a paternal mouthbrooder, meaning the male holds the fertilized eggs and fry in his mouth until they are fully developed and independent. This brooding period lasts around 18-20 days, during which the male will not eat.Â
Conservation Status
The wild population of the Banggai cardinalfish is in decline, largely due to collection for the ornamental live reef trade. In 2016, the species was listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act by NOAA Fisheries.Â
Fortunately, the fish thrives in captivity and is relatively easy to breed in home aquariums. Supporting captive breeding programs and choosing captive-bred fish can help reduce pressure on wild populations and aid in conservation efforts.Â
Approximate Purchase Size:Â 1″ to 2″
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