Fin's Fish Guide
The Cardinal seabream (Evynnis cardinalis) is a saltwater fish of the family Sparidae that grows up to 40 cm.
Description
The cardinal seabream is a seabream from the northwest Pacific, off China, Vietnam and Japan. The species grows to about 40 cm and has a deep, pink to reddish body with blue spots and a few elongated front dorsal-fin rays. As a near-bottom fish it lives over soft and rocky bottoms of the continental shelf to about 100 metres and hunts crustaceans, molluscs and small fish. Owing to heavy fishing the species has declined sharply. The IUCN assesses it as Endangered (EN).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Cardinal seabream?
The Cardinal seabream has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly pink-purple and shows a spots pattern. Elongated front dorsal fin rays and small blue spots; fished and endangered
Where does the Cardinal seabream live?
The Cardinal seabream lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Northwest Pacific
How big does the Cardinal seabream get?
The Cardinal seabream grows to a maximum of about 40 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the Cardinal seabream dangerous to humans?
No, the Cardinal seabream 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 Cardinal seabream edible?
Yes, the Cardinal seabream is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Sparidae
Want the complete picture on the Cardinal seabream?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cardinal seabream is one of 12,519 species in the app.