Fin's Fish Guide
The Moluccan cardinalfish (Ostorhinchus moluccensis) is a saltwater fish of the family Apogonidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Asia: Australia, Solomon Is., Myanmar, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Fiji, India and others
Description
The Moluccan cardinalfish is a cardinalfish (Apogonidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 9 cm and has a stocky body with large eyes and two separate dorsal fins. The reddish body bears fine longitudinal lines. As a nocturnal reef fish it shelters by day in crevices and under overhanging coral and hunts small zooplankton at night. The male broods the eggs in his mouth. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Moluccan cardinalfish?
The Moluccan cardinalfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly red-orange.
Where does the Moluccan cardinalfish live?
The Moluccan 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, India and others
How big does the Moluccan cardinalfish get?
The Moluccan cardinalfish grows to a maximum of about 9 cm.
Is the Moluccan cardinalfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Moluccan 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.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Ostorhinchus
More from the family Apogonidae
Want the complete picture on the Moluccan cardinalfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Moluccan cardinalfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.