Fin's Fish Guide
The Blackfin Cardinalfish (Astrapogon puncticulatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Apogonidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
The blackfin cardinalfish is a small reef fish (family Apogonidae) of the western Atlantic and Caribbean. The species reaches about 8 cm and has a stocky, dark brown to blackish body with dark-coloured fins. Adults live in clear turtlegrass beds, where they often shelter by day in empty snail shells. They are active mainly at night and in the early morning, hunting 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 Blackfin Cardinalfish?
The Blackfin Cardinalfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Lives in seagrass beds and often hides in empty snail shells; the males brood the eggs in the mouth.
Where does the Blackfin Cardinalfish live?
The Blackfin Cardinalfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic and Caribbean, in clear seagrass beds.
How big does the Blackfin Cardinalfish get?
The Blackfin Cardinalfish grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Blackfin Cardinalfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Blackfin Cardinalfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Blackfin Cardinalfish edible?
The Blackfin 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 Astrapogon
More from the family Apogonidae
Want the complete picture on the Blackfin Cardinalfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackfin Cardinalfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.