Timor cardinalfish
📖 Overview
Found in shallow protected coastal reef crests and lagoons, hiding below corals during the day, but also trawled on soft bottom ; also under boulders on shallow reef flats. Nocturnal species. Aquarium breeding is possible .
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 8; Dorsal soft rays (total): 9; Anal spines: 2; Anal soft rays: 8. Characterized by having dorsal fin rays VII-I, 9; anal fin rays II,8; pectoral fin rays 16; pelvic fin rays I, 5; pored lateral line scales 23-24; predorsal scales 3; circumpeduncular scales 12 ; coppery brown to yellowish with an oblique black line below eye; may have three faint, dusky bars on sides ; characterized further by the following: irregular whitish bar across anterior caudal peduncle; lower gill cover with dark brown patch; narrow, oblique dark band below eye; yellowish fins; first dorsal fin with dark brown tip; greatest depth of body 2.5-2.8 in SL .: short and / or deep; Cross section: compressed.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Timor cardinalfish is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
Diet information for Timor cardinalfish is currently being compiled.
🥚 Reproduction
Mouthbrooders . Distinct pairing during courtship and spawning .
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; reef-associated; non-migratory; depth range 1 - 15 m . Tropical; 22°C - 27°C West Pacific: Red Sea and southern Oman south to Natal, South Africa and east to the western Pacific where it occurs from Japan to northern Australia.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"Apogonichthyoides Timorensis is an edible species."
- Clear, bright eyes — cloudy eyes indicate age
- Firm flesh that springs back when pressed
- Fresh ocean smell, never strong or ammonia-like
- Bright red or pink gills, not grey or brown
- Shiny, moist skin with scales tightly attached
- Cloudy or sunken eyes
- Strong fishy or ammonia odour
- Soft, mushy flesh that doesn't spring back
- Discoloured or dry flesh
⚡ Nutrition
Per 100g cooked - Source: USDA FoodData Central
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Protein | 18.6 g |
| Omega-3 (total) | 120 mg |
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for Timor cardinalfish has not yet been assigned. Please consult FDA/EPA guidance for general seafood safety advice.
🌿 Sustainability
🔍 Similar Species
👥 Community & Contribute
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