Fin's Fish Guide
The Barred cardinalfish (Apogon binotatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Apogonidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Western Atlantic and Caribbean, from gravel pits and rocky ledges to clear reefs.
Description
The barred cardinalfish is a small reef fish (family Apogonidae) of the western Atlantic and Caribbean. The species reaches about 13 cm and has a stocky, reddish body with two dark bars. It is ubiquitous, from gravel pits and rock ledges at the sea's edge to clear-water reefs, and hides by day in cracks and crevices. At night it hunts small zooplankton and small invertebrates. Like other cardinalfish the male broods the eggs in its mouth. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Barred cardinalfish?
The Barred cardinalfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Nocturnal reef fish with two dark vertical bars; males brood the eggs in the mouth.
Where does the Barred cardinalfish live?
The Barred cardinalfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic and Caribbean, from gravel pits and rocky ledges to clear reefs.
How big does the Barred cardinalfish get?
The Barred cardinalfish grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Barred cardinalfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Barred cardinalfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Barred cardinalfish edible?
The Barred cardinalfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Apogon
More from the family Apogonidae
Want the complete picture on the Barred cardinalfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Barred cardinalfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.