Fin's Fish Guide
The Variegated cardinalfish (Jaydia poecilopterus) is a fish of the family Apogonidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The Variegated cardinalfish is a cardinalfish (Apogonidae) from shallow reef water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 10 cm and has a stocky, silvery to semi-translucent body with large eyes and two dorsal fins; some relatives carry light organs in the belly. As a nocturnal fish it shelters by day in crevices and under coral and hunts small zooplankton and small crustaceans by night. The male broods the eggs in his mouth. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Variegated cardinalfish?
The Variegated cardinalfish is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Variegated cardinalfish live?
The Variegated cardinalfish is mostly found around stony or rocky ground.
How big does the Variegated cardinalfish get?
The Variegated cardinalfish grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Variegated cardinalfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Variegated 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.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Jaydia
More from the family Apogonidae
Want the complete picture on the Variegated cardinalfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Variegated cardinalfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.