Fin's Fish Guide
The Arrow-tooth cardinal (Cheilodipterus artus) is a saltwater fish of the family Apogonidae that grows up to 19 cm.
Description
The wolf cardinalfish is a cardinalfish from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 19 cm and has a silvery-white body with dark longitudinal stripes, large eyes and, unlike many cardinalfishes, dog-like canine teeth. As a nocturnal reef predator it shelters by day in crevices and among sea urchins and hunts small fish and crustaceans at night. Like other cardinalfishes the male broods the eggs in its mouth. The fish is harmless to humans. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Arrow-tooth cardinal?
The Arrow-tooth cardinal has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Dog-like canines and longitudinal stripes; the male broods eggs in its mouth
Where does the Arrow-tooth cardinal live?
The Arrow-tooth cardinal lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific
How big does the Arrow-tooth cardinal get?
The Arrow-tooth cardinal grows to a maximum of about 19 cm.
Is the Arrow-tooth cardinal dangerous to humans?
No, the Arrow-tooth cardinal 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.
Is the Arrow-tooth cardinal edible?
The Arrow-tooth cardinal is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cheilodipterus
More from the family Apogonidae
Want the complete picture on the Arrow-tooth cardinal?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Arrow-tooth cardinal is one of 12,519 species in the app.