Fin's Fish Guide
The Cardinalfish (Ostorhinchus fleurieu) is a brackish-water fish of the family Apogonidae that grows up to 14 cm.
Asia: Australia, Bahrain, Solomon Is., Myanmar, Sri Lanka, China and others
Description
The Cardinalfish is a cardinalfish (Apogonidae) from shallow reef and lagoon water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 8 cm and has a stocky body with large eyes, two separate dorsal fins and often fine stripes or spots. As a nocturnal fish it shelters in crevices and among coral by day and hunts small plankton and crustaceans at night. The male broods the eggs in his mouth. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Cardinalfish?
The Cardinalfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly red-orange.
Where does the Cardinalfish live?
The Cardinalfish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: Australia, Bahrain, Solomon Is., Myanmar, Sri Lanka, China and others
How big does the Cardinalfish get?
The Cardinalfish grows to a maximum of about 14 cm.
Is the Cardinalfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Cardinalfish 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.
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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 Cardinalfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cardinalfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.