Fin's Fish Guide
The Gilbert's cardinalfish (Zoramia gilberti) is a saltwater fish of the family Apogonidae that grows up to 6 cm.
Oceania: Australia, Solomon Is., Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Indonesia, Japan, Ryukyu Is. and others
Description
Gilbert's cardinalfish is a small cardinalfish (Apogonidae) from shallow, sheltered reef water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 6 cm and has a slender, almost transparent body with large eyes and a faint sheen. As a nocturnal fish it forms dense, glassy schools by day among branching coral and swarms out at night to eat small zooplankton. The male broods the eggs in his mouth. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Gilbert's cardinalfish?
The Gilbert's cardinalfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Gilbert's cardinalfish live?
The Gilbert's cardinalfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: Australia, Solomon Is., Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Indonesia, Japan, Ryukyu Is. and others
How big does the Gilbert's cardinalfish get?
The Gilbert's cardinalfish grows to a maximum of about 6 cm.
Is the Gilbert's cardinalfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Gilbert's 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 Gilbert's cardinalfish edible?
Yes, the Gilbert's 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 Gilbert's cardinalfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Gilbert's cardinalfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.