The Half-barred cardinalfish (Fibramia thermalis) is a saltwater fish of the family Apogonidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Asia: Australia, Sri Lanka, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Mayotte, Fiji, India and others
Description
The half-barred cardinalfish is a cardinalfish (Apogonidae) from shallow coastal and reef water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 10 cm and has a stocky, semi-translucent, silvery body with a dark longitudinal stripe, large eyes and two dorsal fins. As a nocturnal fish it shelters by day among roots, coral and in crevices and hunts small zooplankton and small crustaceans by night. The male broods the eggs in his mouth. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Half-barred cardinalfish?
The Half-barred cardinalfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern.
Where does the Half-barred cardinalfish live?
The Half-barred cardinalfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: Australia, Sri Lanka, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Mayotte, Fiji, India and others
How big does the Half-barred cardinalfish get?
The Half-barred cardinalfish grows to a maximum of about 9 cm.
Is the Half-barred cardinalfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Half-barred 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 Half-barred cardinalfish edible?
Yes, the Half-barred cardinalfish is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Fibramia
More from the family Apogonidae

Want the complete picture on the Half-barred cardinalfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Half-barred cardinalfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.