Fin's Fish Guide
The Reef-flat cardinalfish (Apogonichthyoides taeniatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Apogonidae that grows up to 17 cm.
Description
The reef-flat cardinalfish is a cardinalfish from the Indo-West Pacific, including the Red Sea. The species grows to about 17 cm and has a fairly deep, brownish body with dark cross-bars and a conspicuous spot on the tail base. As a nocturnal reef fish it shelters by day among coral and seagrass and hunts small crustaceans and fish at night. The male broods the eggs in its mouth. The fish is harmless to humans. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Reef-flat cardinalfish?
The Reef-flat cardinalfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Dark vertical bars and a caudal blotch; the male broods the eggs in its mouth
Where does the Reef-flat cardinalfish live?
The Reef-flat cardinalfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific
How big does the Reef-flat cardinalfish get?
The Reef-flat cardinalfish grows to a maximum of about 17 cm.
Is the Reef-flat cardinalfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Reef-flat 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.
Is the Reef-flat cardinalfish edible?
The Reef-flat cardinalfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Reef-flat cardinalfish and live in the same waters.
Want the complete picture on the Reef-flat cardinalfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Reef-flat 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 Apogonichthyoides
More from the family Apogonidae
Want the complete picture on the Reef-flat cardinalfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Reef-flat cardinalfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.