Fin's Fish Guide
The Fragile cardinalfish (Zoramia fragilis) is a saltwater fish of the family Apogonidae that grows up to 6 cm.
Oceania: American Samoa, Australia, Indonesia, Japan, Ryukyu Is., Mozambique and others
Description
The fragile cardinalfish is a small cardinalfish (Apogonidae) from shallow reef water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 5 cm and has a stocky, strongly translucent, silvery body with large eyes and a faint sheen. By day it hovers in loose schools among branching coral and sheltered lagoons; by night it snaps at small zooplankton. The male broods the eggs in his mouth. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Fragile cardinalfish?
The Fragile cardinalfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Fragile cardinalfish live?
The Fragile cardinalfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: American Samoa, Australia, Indonesia, Japan, Ryukyu Is., Mozambique and others
How big does the Fragile cardinalfish get?
The Fragile cardinalfish grows to a maximum of about 6 cm. On average the species is around 4 cm.
Is the Fragile cardinalfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Fragile 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.
Is the Fragile cardinalfish edible?
Yes, the Fragile cardinalfish is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Zoramia
More from the family Apogonidae
Want the complete picture on the Fragile cardinalfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Fragile cardinalfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.