Fin's Fish Guide
The Banda cardinalfish (Nectamia bandanensis) is a saltwater fish of the family Apogonidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Western and central Pacific; shallow lagoon and reef-associated waters.
Description
The bigeye cardinalfish is a small reef fish of the cardinalfish family (Apogonidae) from the western and central Pacific. The species grows to about 10 cm and has a pale body with a dark bar over the eye and large eyes, adapted to a nocturnal way of life. It occurs in shallow reef-associated waters, usually at 1 to 12 metres, and shelters by day in crevices and under ledges. At night it hunts small zooplankton and small invertebrates. Like other cardinalfishes the male broods the eggs in its mouth. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Banda cardinalfish?
The Banda cardinalfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly white and shows a plain pattern. Dark bar across the eye and large eyes; nocturnal, the male broods the eggs in its mouth.
Where does the Banda cardinalfish live?
The Banda cardinalfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western and central Pacific; shallow lagoon and reef-associated waters.
How big does the Banda cardinalfish get?
The Banda cardinalfish grows to a maximum of about 10 cm. On average the species is around 8 cm.
Is the Banda cardinalfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Banda cardinalfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Banda cardinalfish edible?
The Banda cardinalfish is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Nectamia
More from the family Apogonidae
Want the complete picture on the Banda cardinalfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Banda cardinalfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.