Fin's Fish Guide
The Barface cardinalfish (Ostorhinchus semilineatus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Apogonidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Description
The barface cardinalfish is a small reef fish of the family Apogonidae from the northwestern Pacific, around Japan, Korea and China. The species reaches about 12 cm and has a silvery body with fine lines on the head and flank and large eyes. It can enter semi-enclosed sea areas and forms schools over rocky bottoms, at depths of a few to a hundred metres. The species is active at night and feeds on zooplankton. In Japan pairs form from July to September; the male broods the eggs in its mouth. The species is eaten locally.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Barface cardinalfish?
The Barface cardinalfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Fine lines on the face; nocturnal; the male broods the eggs in its mouth.
Where does the Barface cardinalfish live?
The Barface cardinalfish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Northwest Pacific, around Japan, Korea and China.
How big does the Barface cardinalfish get?
The Barface cardinalfish grows to a maximum of about 12 cm. On average the species is around 8 cm.
Is the Barface cardinalfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Barface cardinalfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Barface cardinalfish edible?
Yes, the Barface cardinalfish is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Ostorhinchus
More from the family Apogonidae
Want the complete picture on the Barface cardinalfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Barface cardinalfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.