Fin's Fish Guide
The Iridescent cardinalfish (Pristiapogon kallopterus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Apogonidae that grows up to 16 cm.
Description
The iridescent cardinalfish is a reef fish (family Apogonidae) of the Indo-Pacific. The species reaches about 15 cm and has a stocky, brownish body with an iridescent sheen, a dark lateral stripe and a spot on the caudal peduncle. It inhabits clear lagoon and seaward reefs, from the lower surge zone to about 45 m depth, and is usually solitary. By day it shelters; at night it hunts small benthic and free-swimming invertebrates. Like other cardinalfish the male broods the eggs in its mouth. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Iridescent cardinalfish?
The Iridescent cardinalfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Iridescent sheen with a dark longitudinal stripe and a caudal blotch; males brood the eggs in the mouth.
Where does the Iridescent cardinalfish live?
The Iridescent cardinalfish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific, on clear lagoon and seaward reefs to about 45 m depth.
How big does the Iridescent cardinalfish get?
The Iridescent cardinalfish grows to a maximum of about 16 cm.
Is the Iridescent cardinalfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Iridescent cardinalfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Iridescent cardinalfish edible?
The Iridescent cardinalfish is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pristiapogon
More from the family Apogonidae
Want the complete picture on the Iridescent cardinalfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Iridescent cardinalfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.