
Banggai Cardinalfish (P. kauderni)
Compatibility Guide: Best kept as a single fish or 1x pair in our SEA 80L, 130L and SEA 200L aquariums.
Colouration: Silver body with bold black vertical stripes and white-spotted, elongated fins
Follow our compatibility guide for the maximum number of Banggai Cardinalfish per aquarium.
- Shipping Available Around Perth
- In stock, ready to ship
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The Banggai Cardinalfish (Pterapogon kauderni) is a peaceful reef species with a silver body, bold black vertical stripes, and delicate white-spotted fins. Sustainably aquacultured and supplied as juveniles, they adapt well to aquarium life and bring a calming presence to the Living Ecosystems Aquarium with their slow, graceful swimming style.
Social Behaviour
Banggai Cardinals are gentle fish that thrive in calm environments. They are best kept as a single specimen or as a bonded pair, where they form strong and lasting pair bonds. While peaceful, pairs may become territorial during breeding. They are most active at dawn and dusk, reflecting their natural rhythm.
Habitat & Adaptability
In the wild, Banggai Cardinals hover in midwater near rock formations and shaded ledges. In aquariums, the Living Blocks Reef provides open swimming areas combined with secure shelter, allowing them to feel safe while calmly navigating the midwater zone.
Feeding
These cardinals can be selective but adapt well to a varied diet of enriched meaty foods such as mysis shrimp and finely chopped seafood. In the Living Ecosystems Aquarium, they also accept specially formulated marine pellets that support health, colour, and vitality.
Breeding
Banggai Cardinals are mouthbrooders. The male carries fertilised eggs in his mouth for several weeks, protecting them until the fry are fully developed and ready for release. This unique behaviour can sometimes be observed in home aquariums, offering aquarists a rare glimpse of natural parental care.
All fish are covered by our 14-day Livestock Warranty, which provides a replacement or store credit if livestock is lost or in poor condition within this period.
To claim, you must:
- Report within 14 days of delivery
- Show adherence to our Care Guidelines
Please note: Improper handling, neglect, or failure to follow the Care Guidelines defined in Terms and Conditions will void this warranty.
Livestock
Shipping is available via Uber Delivery (express same-day service) or free in-store pickup.
Delivery is free for livestock orders over $200.
If you have a scheduled maintenance visit, we can also deliver your order during that time at no extra cost.