Tiger cardinalfish

Habitat

Rocky Reef

Coral reef

Special features

Though small, this little fish has surprisingly large fang-like teeth, which it uses while hunting, especially for small prey.

Appearance

It has brown vertical stripes on its light-colored body. The base of its tail is pale whitish, and juveniles have a dark band running through it.

Natural enemies

Predatory fish

Dangerous/venomous

The tiger cardinal fish is neither dangerous nor venomous.

Sketch

1. Pale base of tail 

2. Brown, vertical stripes

Pro tips

Tiger Cardinalfish inhabit protected, coral-rich lagoons and outer reefs. They are often found in caves and under overhangs, either alone or in small groups.

Generally, cardinalfish are small, rarely exceeding 12 cm. Many species are crepuscular or nocturnal. During the day, they drift calmly between coral branches or hide in crevices, while at night, they hunt zooplankton, small fish, or crustaceans. They are bottom-dwelling and very territorial. Their swimming speed is slow.
An interesting feature of cardinalfish is their brood care. After spawning, the male collects the fertilized eggs and incubates them in his mouth for about a week. During this time, the eggs are protected from predators and are continuously oxygenated by the male’s breathing water. The male does not feed during this period.

Text: Carolina Leiter

Pic: Felician Hosp

Illustration: Dive Dict