Fin's Fish Guide
The Roughlip cardinalfish (Apogon robinsi) is a saltwater fish of the family Apogonidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The roughlip cardinalfish is a small reef fish of the family Apogonidae from the western Atlantic. The species reaches about 10 cm and has a reddish body with large eyes, two separate dorsal fins and a slightly rough upper lip, to which the name refers. It is nocturnal and hides by day in crevices and holes of coral and rocky reefs. At night it hunts zooplankton and small invertebrates. Like other cardinalfishes the male broods the eggs in its mouth. Owing to its retiring habits the species is little noticed.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Roughlip cardinalfish?
The Roughlip cardinalfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern. Nocturnal with large eyes; the male is a mouthbrooder.
Where does the Roughlip cardinalfish live?
The Roughlip cardinalfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic, on coral and rocky reefs.
How big does the Roughlip cardinalfish get?
The Roughlip cardinalfish grows to a maximum of about 10 cm. On average the species is around 7 cm.
Is the Roughlip cardinalfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Roughlip cardinalfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Roughlip cardinalfish edible?
The Roughlip cardinalfish is not usually eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Roughlip cardinalfish?
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Apogon
More from the family Apogonidae
Want the complete picture on the Roughlip cardinalfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Roughlip cardinalfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.