Saltwater Aquarium Guide: Banner (Banggai) Cardinal – Captive Bred (Pterapogon kauderni)

Quick Stats:

• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet: Carnivore
• Reef Safe: Yes
• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons
• Max Size: 3 inches
• Water Parameters: Temperature: 72-78°F, pH: 8.1-8.4, Salinity: 1.020-1.025

Comprehensive Guide: Banner (Banggai) Cardinal – Captive Bred (Pterapogon kauderni)

The Banner (Banggai) Cardinal, known as Pterapogon kauderni, is a popular choice for saltwater aquarium enthusiasts. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to care for this species in your aquarium successfully.

Habitat

The Banner (Banggai) Cardinal is native to the Banggai Islands in Indonesia. It can be found in shallow reef areas, usually in small groups near coral branches or rocky crevices.

Reef Safe

The Banner (Banggai) Cardinal is considered reef-safe, making it a great addition to a reef aquarium. It does not harm corals or other invertebrates.

Size

The Banner (Banggai) Cardinal grows up to 3 inches long, making it a relatively small fish suitable for smaller aquariums.

Temperament

This species has a peaceful temperament and can be kept with other peaceful fish species. It is generally non-aggressive and does well in community tanks.

Sexual Dimorphism

Male and female Banner (Banggai) The number of rays can distinguish Cardinals in their dorsal fin. Males have 8-10 rays, while females have 6-8 rays.

Lifespan

The average lifespan of the Banner (Banggai) Cardinal is around 3-5 years, although with proper care, it can live longer.

Diet in Aquariums

The Banner (Banggai) Cardinal is a carnivorous species in the aquarium. It primarily feeds on small crustaceans and zooplankton. It is recommended to provide a varied diet, including frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and small pieces of fish or shrimp.

Aquascaping Recommendations

To mimic their natural habitat, providing plenty of hiding places using live rock or artificial structures is recommended. The Banner (Banggai) Cardinal prefers areas with branching corals or rocky crevices to seek shelter.

Captive Bred Availability

The Banner (Banggai) Cardinal is available as captive-bred. Captive-bred specimens are generally hardier and more adaptable to aquarium conditions than wild-caught individuals. Buying captive-bred fish also helps support sustainable aquaculture practices.

Compatibility with Other Fish, Invertebrates, or Corals

The Banner (Banggai) Cardinal is generally compatible with other peaceful fish species, invertebrates, and corals. However, caution should be exercised when keeping it with larger, aggressive fish that may prey on smaller fish.

Here are 5 specific tankmates that are good choices to keep with the Banner (Banggai) Cardinal:

1. Clownfish – Clownfish are peaceful and can form a symbiotic relationship with the Banner (Banggai) Cardinal.
2. Gobies – Gobies are small, peaceful fish that can coexist well with the Banner (Banggai) Cardinal.
3. Firefish – Firefish are colorful and peaceful, making them suitable tankmates for the Banner (Banggai) Cardinal.
4. Blennies – Blennies are known for their interesting behaviors and can peacefully cohabit with the Banner (Banggai) Cardinal.
5. Dwarf Angelfish – Some dwarf angelfish species can be compatible with the Banner (Banggai) Cardinal, but careful monitoring is necessary as they can be territorial.

Other Common Names

The Banner (Banggai) Cardinal is also known by the following common names: Banggai Cardinalfish, Kaudern’s Cardinalfish, and Longfin Cardinalfish.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the ideal tank size for the Banner (Banggai) Cardinal?

A: The minimum tank size recommended for the Banner (Banggai) Cardinal is 20 gallons. However, larger tanks provide more swimming space and allow a greater variety of tankmates.

Q: Can the Banner (Banggai) Cardinal be kept in a reef aquarium?

A: Yes, the Banner (Banggai) Cardinal is considered reef-safe and can be kept in a reef aquarium without harming corals or other invertebrates.

Q: How often should I feed the Banner (Banggai) Cardinal?

A: It is recommended to feed the Banner (Banggai) Cardinal small amounts of food multiple times a day. This species benefits from regular feedings to maintain its health and vitality.

Q: Can the Banner (Banggai) Cardinal be kept in pairs?

A: Yes, the Banner (Banggai) Cardinal can be kept in pairs or small groups. They are social fish and often form monogamous pairs in the wild.

Q: Is the Banner (Banggai) Cardinal suitable for beginners?

A: Yes, the Banner (Banggai) Cardinal is an excellent choice for beginners due to its ease of care and peaceful nature. It is a hardy species that can adapt well to aquarium conditions.