Fin's Fish Guide
The Mozambique siphonfish (Siphamia mossambica) is a saltwater fish of the family Apogonidae that grows up to 4 cm.
Africa: Bassas da India, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Reunion I. and others
Description
The Mozambique siphonfish is a small light cardinalfish (Apogonidae) from shallow reef water of the western Indian Ocean. The species grows to about 4 cm and has a stocky, semi-translucent body and carries luminous bacteria in the belly that give a soft glow. As a shy, nocturnal fish it shelters by day among the spines of sea urchins and in coral crevices 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 Mozambique siphonfish?
The Mozambique siphonfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Mozambique siphonfish live?
The Mozambique siphonfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Africa: Bassas da India, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Reunion I. and others
How big does the Mozambique siphonfish get?
The Mozambique siphonfish grows to a maximum of about 4 cm.
Is the Mozambique siphonfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Mozambique siphonfish 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 Siphamia
More from the family Apogonidae
Want the complete picture on the Mozambique siphonfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Mozambique siphonfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.