Pajama cardinalfish
📖 Overview
Forms aggregations among the branches of Porites nigrescens and P. cylindrica in sheltered bays and lagoons . Disperses at night to feed close to the bottom . Has been reared in captivity . Popular aquarium fish .
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 7 - 8; Dorsal soft rays (total): 9; Anal spines: 2; Anal soft rays: 9 - 10. : short and / or deep; Cross section: compressed.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Pajama cardinalfish is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
Diet information for Pajama cardinalfish is currently being compiled.
🥚 Reproduction
Are mouthbrooders . Distinct pairing during courtship and spawning .
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; reef-associated; depth range 1 - 14 m . Tropical; 31°N - 23°S, 94°E - 175°W north to the Ryukyu Islands, south to the Great Barrier Reef.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"Pajama cardinalfish is an edible species."
- Clear, bright eyes — cloudy eyes indicate age
- Firm flesh that springs back when pressed
- Fresh ocean smell, never strong or ammonia-like
- Bright red or pink gills, not grey or brown
- Shiny, moist skin with scales tightly attached
- Cloudy or sunken eyes
- Strong fishy or ammonia odour
- Soft, mushy flesh that doesn't spring back
- Discoloured or dry flesh
⚡ Nutrition
Per 100g cooked - Source: USDA FoodData Central
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Protein | 18.5 g |
| Omega-3 (total) | 117 mg |
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for Pajama cardinalfish has not yet been assigned. Please consult FDA/EPA guidance for general seafood safety advice.
🌿 Sustainability
🔍 Similar Species
👥 Community & Contribute
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