MarineDepot.com Education Center - Species Database
Pterapogon kauderni
Bangaii Cardinals are best kept in pairs. Pterapogon kauderni, Koumans 1933, the Banggai Cardinalfish. A darling of the ornamental aquatics industry and hobby. Readily reproduced in captivity. Young cluster about the spines of the Urchin Diadema setosum when threatened. One of the most popular, and recently discovered species of Cardinals, the Banggai Cardinal was first described in 1995, and has been extremely popular with Hobbyists ever since. This species is found only in Indonesia, which is unfortunate as rotation of collection areas is not possible. Fortunately this species is very easily bred in captivity, and its interesting mouth brooding behavior assures that the fry will have a fairly high success rate of survival. In the wild these fish are found in small groups of 2 to 60 animals living among the spines of sea urchins, and may reside in crevices and beneath rock ledges by day, searching the bottom for food at night. It is said that the Males and females are easily distinguished by the male having a much more angular head, and the second dorsal fin is long and banner like. The females head is much more rounded, and the second dorsal fin is fairly short in comparrison to the males, but this information is not reliable. Sexes are not guaranteed. It is recommended to keep this fish in pairs only, as pairs will turn aggressive to others of its own kind.
Maximum Size: the Pterapogon kauderni grows up to 3 inches.
Minimum Tank Size: The Banggai Cardinal prefers a tank of at least 20 gallons with plenty of places to hide & swim.
Diet: The Pterapogon kauderni is a carnivore and likes to eat variety of meaty treats (bloodworms, feeder shrimp, marine flesh).
Level of Care: The Banggai Cardinal is a low maintenance fish.
Behavior: The Banggai Cardinal may act peacefully toward other fish.
Water Conditions: Keep water quality high (SG 1.020 - 1.025, pH 8.1 - 8.4, Temp. 72 - 78 F).
Range: Indo-Pacific.
Breeding: Able to breed.
Species Compatibility Checker
It is important to make sure species can peacefully cohabitate before adding livestock to an aquarium. Use our handy species compatibility checker to determine if the animals on your wish list will play nice together.
