Flame Cardinal

The Caribbean Flame Cardinal (Pogon maculatus) is a vibrant and striking addition to large saltwater aquariums. Known for its bright red-orange body contrasted with subtle black markings and sleek profile, this species adds bold color and classic Caribbean reef appeal to your tank.

Native to Caribbean reefs and rocky coastal habitats, Flame Cardinals appreciate plenty of open swimming space along with rockwork or crevices for shelter and security. They are generally peaceful and do well in community setups with other non-aggressive fish, making them a colorful yet compatible addition to a larger tank.

This species is hardy and adapts well to captivity, readily accepting a carnivorous diet of meaty frozen foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood, along with high-quality prepared foods. Its vibrant coloration, active swimming behavior, and manageable size make it a great choice for hobbyists with established reef or fish-only systems.

Quick Facts:

• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Maximum Size: ~5 inches
• Minimum Tank Size: 50 gallons
• Diet: Carnivore (meaty frozen and prepared foods)
• Reef Safe: Generally