Fin's Fish Guide
The Belted cardinalfish (Apogon townsendi) is a saltwater fish of the family Apogonidae that grows up to 7 cm.
Western Atlantic and Caribbean, in coral and rocky areas near steep walls.
Description
The belted cardinalfish is a small reef fish (family Apogonidae) of the western Atlantic and Caribbean. The species reaches only about 6 cm and has a stocky, reddish body with conspicuous dark bars, which give it its name. It inhabits coral and rocky areas, often near drop-offs, and by day is solitary or in small groups hidden in caves and crevices; sometimes it hovers among the long spines of sea urchins. 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 Belted cardinalfish?
The Belted cardinalfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Nocturnal reef fish that hides during the day or hovers among sea urchin spines; males brood the eggs in the mouth.
Where does the Belted cardinalfish live?
The Belted cardinalfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic and Caribbean, in coral and rocky areas near steep walls.
How big does the Belted cardinalfish get?
The Belted cardinalfish grows to a maximum of about 7 cm.
Is the Belted cardinalfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Belted cardinalfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Belted cardinalfish edible?
The Belted cardinalfish is not usually eaten.
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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 Belted cardinalfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Belted cardinalfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.