The Pajama Cardinal, Sphaeramia nematoptera, has a greenish yellow front half, divided by a black band in the middle of their body, followed by a spotted or polka dot dorsal region that is an off-white color with vibrant red-orange spots and elongated forked fins. They hardy and a great choice for a beginner. Since they are very peaceful and social fish, they are best kept in a peaceful reef tank and can even be kept in schools if the tank is large enough.

Cardinals are reef safe and will not bother any corals or inverts present in the tank. Though they are slower swimmers which makes them slower eaters as well. Diet should include a variety of live or frozen mysis or vitamin enriched brine shrimp, 2-3 times daily.