The Banded cardinalfish (Pseudamia zonata) is a saltwater fish of the family Apogonidae that grows up to 21 cm.
Oceania: Solomon Is., Fiji, Indonesia, Japan, Ryukyu Is., New Caledonia and others
Description
The Banded cardinalfish is a cardinalfish (Apogonidae) from shallow reef water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 10 cm and has a stocky, semi-translucent body with large eyes and two dorsal fins. As a nocturnal fish it shelters by day in caves, crevices and under overhanging reef and hunts small zooplankton and small crustaceans by night. The male broods the eggs in his mouth. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Banded cardinalfish?
The Banded cardinalfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Banded cardinalfish live?
The Banded cardinalfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: Solomon Is., Fiji, Indonesia, Japan, Ryukyu Is., New Caledonia and others
How big does the Banded cardinalfish get?
The Banded cardinalfish grows to a maximum of about 21 cm.
Is the Banded cardinalfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Banded 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 Pseudamia
More from the family Apogonidae

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