Fin's Fish Guide
The Flamefish (Apogon maculatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Apogonidae that grows up to 11 cm.
Western Atlantic and Caribbean, in shaded crevices and caves of coral and rocky reefs.
Description
The flamefish is a bright-red reef fish of the family Apogonidae (cardinalfishes) reaching about 11 cm. The stocky body is vivid red, with large eyes, a dark spot below the second dorsal fin and a fine bar through the eye. By day it shelters in shaded crevices and caves of coral and rock reefs in the western Atlantic and the Caribbean; at night it emerges to hunt small crustaceans and fish. Like many cardinalfishes it is a mouthbrooder: the male broods the egg ball in his mouth until the young hatch. Because of its colour and behaviour it is popular in the marine aquarium.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Flamefish?
The Flamefish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a spots pattern. Bright red reef fish with large eyes, a dark blotch below the second dorsal fin and a small stripe through the eye; the male broods the eggs in his mouth.
Where does the Flamefish live?
The Flamefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic and Caribbean, in shaded crevices and caves of coral and rocky reefs.
How big does the Flamefish get?
The Flamefish grows to a maximum of about 11 cm.
Is the Flamefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Flamefish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Flamefish edible?
The Flamefish is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Apogon
More from the family Apogonidae
Want the complete picture on the Flamefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Flamefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.