The Indian Ocean twospot cardinalfish (Cheilodipterus novemstriatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Apogonidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
The Indian Ocean twospot cardinalfish is a small reef fish (Apogonidae) from the northwest Indian Ocean, including the Persian Gulf and Red Sea. The species grows to about 8 cm and has a slender body with nine dark longitudinal stripes and a yellow-and-black spot on the tail base. As a nocturnal reef-dweller it shelters by day in crevices and near coral and hunts small zooplankton and crustaceans at night. The male broods the eggs in its mouth. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Indian Ocean twospot cardinalfish?
The Indian Ocean twospot cardinalfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern.
Where does the Indian Ocean twospot cardinalfish live?
The Indian Ocean twospot cardinalfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Indian Ocean twospot cardinalfish get?
The Indian Ocean twospot cardinalfish grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Indian Ocean twospot cardinalfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Indian Ocean twospot cardinalfish is harmless to humans.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cheilodipterus
More from the family Apogonidae
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