Fin's Fish Guide
The Cardinal soldierfish (Plectrypops retrospinis) is a saltwater fish of the family Holocentridae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
The cardinal soldierfish is a small, bright red reef fish of the squirrelfish family (Holocentridae) of the western Atlantic and Caribbean. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a stocky, laterally compressed body with conspicuously large eyes, in keeping with its nocturnal lifestyle. By day it hides in deep recesses, holes and caves of coral reefs and is rarely seen; at night it emerges to hunt small invertebrates. The species has no commercial value and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Cardinal soldierfish?
The Cardinal soldierfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern. Large eyes; shelters in crevices and caves of the reef during the day.
Where does the Cardinal soldierfish live?
The Cardinal soldierfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic and Caribbean.
How big does the Cardinal soldierfish get?
The Cardinal soldierfish grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Cardinal soldierfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Cardinal soldierfish 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 soldierfish edible?
The Cardinal soldierfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Cardinal soldierfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cardinal soldierfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Plectrypops
More from the family Holocentridae
Want the complete picture on the Cardinal soldierfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cardinal soldierfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.