The Backspot cardinalfish (Jaydia carinatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Apogonidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
The ocellate cardinalfish is a cardinalfish from the western Pacific, ranging from Japan and the China seas to northwestern Australia. It grows to about 15 cm and has a deep, laterally compressed body with large, easily shed scales; a distinctive black oval ocellus marks the second dorsal fin. As a bottom-dweller the fish lives on muddy bottoms between about 50 and 145 metres depth. Like all cardinalfish the species is a mouthbrooder in which the male incubates the eggs in his mouth. The IUCN has not evaluated the species (NE).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Backspot cardinalfish?
The Backspot cardinalfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Black oval eyespot on the second dorsal fin; large deciduous scales; male mouthbrooder
Where does the Backspot cardinalfish live?
The Backspot cardinalfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Pacific
How big does the Backspot cardinalfish get?
The Backspot cardinalfish grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Backspot cardinalfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Backspot 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.
Is the Backspot cardinalfish edible?
The Backspot cardinalfish is rarely eaten.

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

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