The Ninestripe cardinal (Ostorhinchus taeniophorus) is a saltwater fish of the family Apogonidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Description
The reef-flat cardinalfish is a cardinalfish (Apogonidae) from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 10 cm and has a reddish to brown body with dark lengthwise bands and large eyes, adapted to a nocturnal life. It lives close inshore in holes and under ledges of outer reef flats exposed to surge, to about 10 m deep. By day it shelters; at night it hunts zooplankton and small invertebrates. Like all cardinalfishes the male is a mouthbrooder. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Ninestripe cardinal?
The Ninestripe cardinal has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a horizontal stripes pattern.
Where does the Ninestripe cardinal live?
The Ninestripe cardinal lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground.
How big does the Ninestripe cardinal get?
The Ninestripe cardinal grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Ninestripe cardinal dangerous to humans?
No, the Ninestripe cardinal is harmless to humans.
Is the Ninestripe cardinal edible?
The Ninestripe cardinal is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Ostorhinchus
More from the family Apogonidae
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