Fin's Fish Guide
The Luminous cardinalfish (Siphamia tubifer) is a saltwater fish of the family Apogonidae that grows up to 7 cm.
Asia: Australia, Solomon Is., Myanmar, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Fiji, French Polynesia and others
Description
The luminous cardinalfish is a small cardinalfish (Apogonidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 5 cm and has a stocky, translucent body with large eyes and a light organ on the belly that glows through symbiotic luminous bacteria. By day it shelters among the spines of sea urchins; 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 Luminous cardinalfish?
The Luminous cardinalfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Luminous cardinalfish live?
The Luminous cardinalfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: Australia, Solomon Is., Myanmar, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Fiji, French Polynesia and others
How big does the Luminous cardinalfish get?
The Luminous cardinalfish grows to a maximum of about 7 cm.
Is the Luminous cardinalfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Luminous 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.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Siphamia
More from the family Apogonidae
Want the complete picture on the Luminous cardinalfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Luminous cardinalfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.