Fin's Fish Guide
The Pale cardinalfish (Apogon planifrons) is a saltwater fish of the family Apogonidae that grows up to 11 cm.
Description
The pale cardinalfish is a cardinalfish (Apogonidae) from the western Atlantic and the Caribbean. The species is small and has a pale reddish body with large eyes, adapted to a nocturnal life. It inhabits coral and rocky areas, usually at 3 to 30 m deep, possibly deeper. By day it shelters in crevices; at night it hunts zooplankton and small invertebrates. Like all cardinalfishes the male is a mouthbrooder that incubates the eggs in its mouth. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Pale cardinalfish?
The Pale cardinalfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern. Pale reddish body with large eyes; nocturnal mouthbrooder of coral and rocky areas.
Where does the Pale cardinalfish live?
The Pale cardinalfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic and Caribbean; coral and rocky areas.
How big does the Pale cardinalfish get?
The Pale cardinalfish grows to a maximum of about 11 cm.
Is the Pale cardinalfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Pale cardinalfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Pale cardinalfish edible?
The Pale cardinalfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
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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 Pale cardinalfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pale cardinalfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone