Fin's Fish Guide
The Eyespot cardinalfish (Ostorhinchus ocellicaudus) is a saltwater fish of the family Apogonidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Oceania: Australia, Solomon Is., Fiji, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Philippines and others
Description
The Eyespot cardinalfish is a cardinalfish (Apogonidae) from shallow reef and lagoon water of the western Pacific. The species grows to about 8 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 Eyespot cardinalfish?
The Eyespot cardinalfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly red-orange.
Where does the Eyespot cardinalfish live?
The Eyespot cardinalfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: Australia, Solomon Is., Fiji, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Philippines and others
How big does the Eyespot cardinalfish get?
The Eyespot cardinalfish grows to a maximum of about 5 cm.
Is the Eyespot cardinalfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Eyespot 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
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Ostorhinchus
More from the family Apogonidae
Want the complete picture on the Eyespot cardinalfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Eyespot cardinalfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.