How to Identify Yellowstriped Cardinalfish

To identify Yellowstriped Cardinalfish (Apogon flavus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

The body is typically reddish-brown to silvery-pink, adorned with prominent bright yellow longitudinal stripes. The intensity of the yellow stripes can vary, sometimes appearing more golden. Fins are often translucent with a yellowish tint.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Two prominent yellow longitudinal stripes running along the body, one from the snout through the eye to the caudal peduncle, and another below it., Large eyes, characteristic of nocturnal species., Two distinct dorsal fins.

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins; the first dorsal fin has 6-7 spines, and the second dorsal fin has 1 spine and 9-10 soft rays.

Tail fin

Forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are relatively large and fan-shaped.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are thoracic, located beneath the pectoral fins.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Coloration and Stripes

   Look for the distinctive reddish-brown to silvery-pink body with two prominent bright yellow longitudinal stripes. This is the most reliable visual identifier.

2. 2

   Eye Size

   Observe the relatively large eyes, indicative of its nocturnal habits, which is common among cardinalfishes but can help distinguish it from other reef fish.

3. 3

   Fin Structure

   Note the two separate dorsal fins and the forked caudal fin. The first dorsal fin is spiny, while the second is soft-rayed.

4. 4

   Behavior

   During the day, they are often observed hovering motionless in sheltered areas, emerging at dusk to feed.

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