Fin's Fish Guide
The Barspot cardinalfish (Apogon retrosella) is a saltwater fish of the family Apogonidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Eastern Pacific; rocky reefs of the Gulf of California and surroundings.
Description
The barspot cardinalfish is a small reef fish of the cardinalfish family (Apogonidae) from the eastern Pacific. The species grows to about 10 cm and has a reddish body with a dark bar behind the pectoral fin and a second spot on the tail base. It inhabits rocky reefs, where by day it hides in crevices and under ledges and only ventures out at night. As a nocturnal hunter it feeds on crustaceans and other 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 Barspot cardinalfish?
The Barspot cardinalfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a spots pattern. Dark bar behind the pectoral fin; nocturnal, the male broods the eggs in its mouth.
Where does the Barspot cardinalfish live?
The Barspot cardinalfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Pacific; rocky reefs of the Gulf of California and surroundings.
How big does the Barspot cardinalfish get?
The Barspot cardinalfish grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Barspot cardinalfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Barspot cardinalfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Barspot cardinalfish edible?
The Barspot 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 Barspot cardinalfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Barspot cardinalfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.