Fin's Fish Guide
The Blue-lined cardinalfish (Ostorhinchus cyanosoma) is a saltwater fish of the family Apogonidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
The yellowstriped cardinalfish is a small reef fish of the cardinalfish family (Apogonidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 8 cm and has an orangish body with several bright yellow longitudinal stripes. It inhabits sheltered, clear parts of lagoon and seaward reefs and stays by day in groups under ledges and among coral. As a nocturnal hunter it feeds on small zooplankton and 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 Blue-lined cardinalfish?
The Blue-lined cardinalfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Orangish with bright yellow longitudinal stripes; nocturnal, the male broods the eggs in his mouth.
Where does the Blue-lined cardinalfish live?
The Blue-lined cardinalfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific; sheltered, clear lagoon and seaward reefs.
How big does the Blue-lined cardinalfish get?
The Blue-lined cardinalfish grows to a maximum of about 8 cm. On average the species is around 6 cm.
Is the Blue-lined cardinalfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Blue-lined cardinalfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Blue-lined cardinalfish edible?
The Blue-lined cardinalfish is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Ostorhinchus
More from the family Apogonidae
Want the complete picture on the Blue-lined cardinalfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blue-lined cardinalfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.