Fin's Fish Guide
The Eightspine cardinalfish (Neamia octospina) is a saltwater fish of the family Apogonidae that grows up to 7 cm.
Asia: Australia, Solomon Is., Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Cocos Is. (Keel), Fiji, Indonesia and others
Description
The Eightspine cardinalfish is a cardinalfish (Apogonidae) from shallow coral-reef water around Australia and the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 7 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 Eightspine cardinalfish?
The Eightspine cardinalfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly red-orange.
Where does the Eightspine cardinalfish live?
The Eightspine cardinalfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: Australia, Solomon Is., Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Cocos Is. (Keel), Fiji, Indonesia and others
How big does the Eightspine cardinalfish get?
The Eightspine cardinalfish grows to a maximum of about 7 cm.
Is the Eightspine cardinalfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Eightspine 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
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Status & sources
More from the family Apogonidae
Want the complete picture on the Eightspine cardinalfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Eightspine cardinalfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.