The Smith's cardinalfish (Jaydia smithi) is a saltwater fish of the family Apogonidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
Smith's cardinalfish is a small cardinalfish (Apogonidae) from the western Indian Ocean. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a stocky, silvery to red-brown body with dark crossbars and large eyes. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it shelters by day near reefs and on sand and mud bottoms and hunts small zooplankton and crustaceans at night. The male broods the eggs in its mouth. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Smith's cardinalfish?
The Smith's cardinalfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a vertical stripes pattern.
Where does the Smith's cardinalfish live?
The Smith's cardinalfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Smith's cardinalfish get?
The Smith's cardinalfish grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Smith's cardinalfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Smith's cardinalfish is harmless to humans.
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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
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