Fin's Fish Guide
The Aurita cardinalfish (Fowleria aurita) is a saltwater fish of the family Apogonidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Description
The crosseyed cardinalfish is a cardinalfish (Apogonidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species is small and has a stocky, brownish body with large eyes and a conspicuous, eye-like spot (ocellus) on the gill cover, to which the name refers. It occurs in shallow reef areas and is often found among weeds in tide pools. It is a nocturnal species that hides by day and hunts small zooplankton and small invertebrates at night. The male incubates the eggs in its mouth. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Aurita cardinalfish?
The Aurita cardinalfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Eye-shaped blotch on the operculum; nocturnal, the male broods the eggs in its mouth.
Where does the Aurita cardinalfish live?
The Aurita cardinalfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific; shallow reef areas and tide pools.
How big does the Aurita cardinalfish get?
The Aurita cardinalfish grows to a maximum of about 9 cm.
Is the Aurita cardinalfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Aurita cardinalfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Aurita cardinalfish edible?
The Aurita cardinalfish is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Fowleria
More from the family Apogonidae
Want the complete picture on the Aurita cardinalfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Aurita cardinalfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.