Fin's Fish Guide
The Blackbelted cardinalfish (Taeniamia zosterophora) is a saltwater fish of the family Apogonidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
The blackbelted cardinalfish is a small reef fish of the family Apogonidae from the Indo-West Pacific. The species reaches about 8 cm and has a semi-transparent body with a striking black cross-bar. It forms dense schools above and among the branches of branching corals such as Porites and Acropora, in sheltered lagoons and coastal bays, to about 40 m deep. At night it hunts zooplankton. Like other cardinalfishes the male broods the eggs in its mouth, a form of remarkable parental care. The coral provides the school with protection by day.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blackbelted cardinalfish?
The Blackbelted cardinalfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Forms dense shoals among the branches of Porites and Acropora corals; the male is a mouthbrooder.
Where does the Blackbelted cardinalfish live?
The Blackbelted cardinalfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific, among branching corals.
How big does the Blackbelted cardinalfish get?
The Blackbelted cardinalfish grows to a maximum of about 8 cm. On average the species is around 6 cm.
Is the Blackbelted cardinalfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Blackbelted cardinalfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Blackbelted cardinalfish edible?
The Blackbelted cardinalfish is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Taeniamia
More from the family Apogonidae
Want the complete picture on the Blackbelted cardinalfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackbelted cardinalfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.