Fin's Fish Guide
The Eyeshadow cardinalfish (Pristiapogon exostigma) is a saltwater fish of the family Apogonidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Oceania: American Samoa, Australia, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Cocos Is. (Keel), Comoros, Fiji and others
Description
The eyeshadow cardinalfish is a small reef fish (Apogonidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 12 cm and has a slender, reddish to translucent body with a dark stripe through the eye and a small dark spot below the second dorsal fin. As a nocturnal reef-dweller it shelters by day in groups 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 Eyeshadow cardinalfish?
The Eyeshadow cardinalfish has a torpedo-shaped body.
Where does the Eyeshadow cardinalfish live?
The Eyeshadow cardinalfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: American Samoa, Australia, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Cocos Is. (Keel), Comoros, Fiji and others
How big does the Eyeshadow cardinalfish get?
The Eyeshadow cardinalfish grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Eyeshadow cardinalfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Eyeshadow 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.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pristiapogon
More from the family Apogonidae
Want the complete picture on the Eyeshadow cardinalfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Eyeshadow cardinalfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.