Fin's Fish Guide
The Chubby cardinal (Sphaeramia orbicularis) is a saltwater fish of the family Apogonidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The orbiculate cardinalfish is a small reef fish of the cardinalfish family (Apogonidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 10 cm and has a deep, silver-grey body with a dark band behind the pectoral fin and fine dark spots on the rear half. It is restricted to coastal waters and forms small groups among mangroves, rocks, driftwood and piers. It is a nocturnal species that hides in shade by day and hunts small zooplankton and small invertebrates at night. Like other cardinalfishes the male broods the eggs in its mouth. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Chubby cardinal?
The Chubby cardinal has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Dark band behind the pectoral fin and fine spots; nocturnal mangrove dweller, the male broods the eggs in its mouth.
Where does the Chubby cardinal live?
The Chubby cardinal lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific; coastal waters among mangroves, rocks and piers.
How big does the Chubby cardinal get?
The Chubby cardinal grows to a maximum of about 10 cm. On average the species is around 9 cm.
Is the Chubby cardinal dangerous to humans?
No, the Chubby cardinal is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Chubby cardinal edible?
The Chubby cardinal is not usually eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Chubby cardinal?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Chubby cardinal is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Sphaeramia
More from the family Apogonidae
Want the complete picture on the Chubby cardinal?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Chubby cardinal is one of 12,519 species in the app.