Fin's Fish Guide
The Singapore toothy cardinalfish (Cheilodipterus singapurensis) is a saltwater fish of the family Apogonidae that grows up to 18 cm.
Oceania: Australia, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, New Caledonia, Micronesia and others
Description
The Singapore toothy cardinalfish is a cardinalfish (Apogonidae) from shallow reef water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 10 cm and has a slender, silvery body with dark longitudinal stripes, a yellow tail-base spot, large eyes and conspicuously large canine teeth. As a nocturnal predator it shelters by coral by day and hunts small fish and crustaceans at night. The male broods the eggs in his mouth. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Singapore toothy cardinalfish?
The Singapore toothy cardinalfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern.
Where does the Singapore toothy cardinalfish live?
The Singapore toothy cardinalfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: Australia, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, New Caledonia, Micronesia and others
How big does the Singapore toothy cardinalfish get?
The Singapore toothy cardinalfish grows to a maximum of about 18 cm.
Is the Singapore toothy cardinalfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Singapore toothy 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 Singapore toothy cardinalfish edible?
Yes, the Singapore toothy cardinalfish is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cheilodipterus
More from the family Apogonidae
Want the complete picture on the Singapore toothy cardinalfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Singapore toothy cardinalfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.