Fin's Fish Guide
The Mottled cardinalfish (Fowleria vaiulae) is a saltwater fish of the family Apogonidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Asia: Australia, Bahrain, Solomon Is., Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Christmas I., French Polynesia and others
Description
The mottled cardinalfish is a small cardinalfish (Apogonidae) from shallow reef water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 6 cm and has a stocky, brown-mottled body with large eyes and often an eyespot behind the gill cover. As a nocturnal fish it shelters by day among coral rubble, sponges and in crevices and hunts 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 Mottled cardinalfish?
The Mottled cardinalfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern.
Where does the Mottled cardinalfish live?
The Mottled cardinalfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: Australia, Bahrain, Solomon Is., Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Christmas I., French Polynesia and others
How big does the Mottled cardinalfish get?
The Mottled cardinalfish grows to a maximum of about 5 cm.
Is the Mottled cardinalfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Mottled 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 Fowleria
More from the family Apogonidae
Want the complete picture on the Mottled cardinalfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Mottled cardinalfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.