The Arrow cardinalfish (Rhabdamia gracilis) is a saltwater fish of the family Apogonidae that grows up to 7 cm.
Asia: Australia, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Cocos Is. (Keel), Fiji, Hong Kong, India and others
Description
The arrow cardinalfish is a small, slender cardinalfish (Apogonidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 7 cm and has a translucent, light-pink body with large eyes. Unlike many cardinalfish it swarms by day in dense schools above coral heads and crevices; it eats small zooplankton. The male broods the eggs in his mouth. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Arrow cardinalfish?
The Arrow cardinalfish has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly pink-purple.
Where does the Arrow cardinalfish live?
The Arrow cardinalfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: Australia, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Cocos Is. (Keel), Fiji, Hong Kong, India and others
How big does the Arrow cardinalfish get?
The Arrow cardinalfish grows to a maximum of about 7 cm.
Is the Arrow cardinalfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Arrow cardinalfish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.

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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Rhabdamia
More from the family Apogonidae

Want the complete picture on the Arrow cardinalfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Arrow cardinalfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.