Fin's Fish Guide
The Black cardinalfish (Apogonichthyoides melas) is a saltwater fish of the family Apogonidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The black cardinalfish is a small cardinalfish from the western Pacific, from Malaysia to the Moluccas, north to the Ryukyu Islands and south to the Rowley Shoals. The species grows to about 10 cm and is mostly dark to black in colour, with large eyes. It lives in shallow, sheltered coastal bays among rocks, branching coral and under jetties to about 15 metres depth. Like other cardinalfishes it is nocturnal and the male broods the eggs in his mouth. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Black cardinalfish?
The Black cardinalfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly black and shows a plain pattern. Nocturnal; the male broods the eggs in its mouth (mouthbrooder)
Where does the Black cardinalfish live?
The Black cardinalfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Pacific
How big does the Black cardinalfish get?
The Black cardinalfish grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Black cardinalfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Black 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.
Is the Black cardinalfish edible?
The Black 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 Apogonichthyoides
More from the family Apogonidae
Want the complete picture on the Black cardinalfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Black cardinalfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.