Fin's Fish Guide
The Dusky-tailed cardinalfish (Cheilodipterus isostigmus) is a fish of the family Apogonidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The dusky cardinalfish is a cardinalfish (Apogonidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species is small and has an elongate body with dark lengthwise stripes, large eyes and a black spot on the tail base. As a nocturnal fish it shelters by day in crevices and under overhanging coral and hunts small zooplankton and small crustaceans at night. Notably, the male incubates the eggs in its mouth. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Dusky-tailed cardinalfish?
The Dusky-tailed cardinalfish is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Dark longitudinal stripes and a caudal blotch; nocturnal; the male hatches the eggs in his mouth.
Where does the Dusky-tailed cardinalfish live?
The Dusky-tailed cardinalfish is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific; coral reefs.
How big does the Dusky-tailed cardinalfish get?
The Dusky-tailed cardinalfish grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Dusky-tailed cardinalfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Dusky-tailed cardinalfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Dusky-tailed cardinalfish edible?
The Dusky-tailed cardinalfish is not usually eaten.
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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
Want the complete picture on the Dusky-tailed cardinalfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Dusky-tailed cardinalfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.