Fin's Fish Guide
The Norfolk cardinalfish (Ostorhinchus norfolcensis) is a saltwater fish of the family Apogonidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
The Norfolk cardinalfish is a cardinalfish (Apogonidae) from the southwest Pacific. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a stocky body with large eyes and two separate dorsal fins. The red-brown body bears a few dark stripes. 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 Norfolk cardinalfish?
The Norfolk cardinalfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly red-orange.
Where does the Norfolk cardinalfish live?
The Norfolk cardinalfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: Australia, New Caledonia, Norfolk I., Lord Howe I.
How big does the Norfolk cardinalfish get?
The Norfolk cardinalfish grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Norfolk cardinalfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Norfolk 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.
Want the complete picture on the Norfolk cardinalfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Norfolk cardinalfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
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 Norfolk cardinalfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Norfolk cardinalfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.