Banggai Cardinalfish | Pterapogon kauderni

The Banggai Cardinalfish (Pterapogon kauderni), also known as the Banggai Cardinal, is a striking reef fish recognized for its bold black-and-white bands, shimmering silver body, and elongated fins adorned with small white spots. Native to the Banggai Islands of Indonesia, this unique species is prized for its elegant appearance, peaceful demeanor, and fascinating hovering behavior. Unlike many other cardinalfish, Banggai Cardinals are also known for their unusual reproductive behavior, with males carrying developing eggs in their mouths until the young are released.

Care Level: Easy–Moderate
Maximum Size: 3 inches
Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons
Temperament: Peaceful / Semi-Territorial
Reef Safe: Yes
Diet: Carnivore
Temperature: 74–80°F
Specific Gravity: 1.023–1.026
pH: 8.0–8.4

Banggai Cardinalfish thrive in established marine aquariums with plenty of live rock, branching structures, and sheltered areas where they can retreat when necessary. Although generally peaceful toward other species, they may become territorial toward other Banggai Cardinals, particularly as they mature. They are often best maintained individually or as a compatible bonded pair, as groups may experience aggression in smaller aquariums. Feed a varied diet of mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, finely chopped seafood, and other high-quality frozen or prepared carnivore foods. Captive-bred specimens are strongly recommended due to conservation concerns surrounding wild populations. Their distinctive appearance, manageable size, and fascinating behavior make Banggai Cardinalfish an excellent addition to peaceful reef aquariums.