Fin's Fish Guide
The Cardinal fish (Apogon imberbis) is a saltwater fish of the family Apogonidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea: from Portugal to Morocco and the Azores, southwards to the Gulf of Guinea.
Description
The Mediterranean cardinalfish is a small, bright red reef fish of the family Apogonidae reaching about 15 cm. It is characterised by very large eyes, much bigger than the snout, and a few dark spots near the tail base. The species is shade-loving and mainly active at night; by day it shelters by caves, crevices and rocks in the Mediterranean and eastern Atlantic, usually between 10 and 200 m. It feeds on small invertebrates and fishes. Its reproduction is notable: the male incubates the fertilised eggs in his mouth cavity (mouthbrooding). The cardinalfish is popular in the aquarium trade because of its colour.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Cardinal fish?
The Cardinal fish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern. Small, bright red reef fish with very large eyes and a few dark blotches near the base of the tail; males brood the eggs in the mouth (mouthbrooder).
Where does the Cardinal fish live?
The Cardinal fish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea: from Portugal to Morocco and the Azores, southwards to the Gulf of Guinea.
How big does the Cardinal fish get?
The Cardinal fish grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Cardinal fish dangerous to humans?
No, the Cardinal fish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Cardinal fish edible?
The Cardinal fish is not usually eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Cardinal fish and live in the same waters.
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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 Cardinal fish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cardinal fish is one of 12,519 species in the app.