Broadstriped cardinalfish
📖 Overview
Commonly found in clear-waters of seaward reefs; on reef crests and slopes, where usually shallow, and along deep drop-offs to 25 m . Feeds on polychaetes and other small benthic invertebrates at night; cryptic under ledges or in holes by day . Solitary or in small groups (Ref 90102).
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 8; Dorsal soft rays (total): 9; Anal spines: 2; Anal soft rays: 8. Whitish with 5 horizontal stripes (brassy to dark brown in color); dark spot at base of middle caudal fin rays; fin rays light red . Greatest depth of body 2.7-3.2 in SL . Dorsal-fin rays VII-I, 9; anal-fin rays II, 8; pectoral fin rays 14; pelvic fin rays I, 5; pored lateral line scales 24; predorsal scales 4; circumpeduncular scales 12; total gill rakers 19, developed gill rakers 14; body white colored, with five poorly defined dark brown stripes on lateral surface of body, posterior end of third stripe reaching black spot on base of caudal fin; base of caudal fin with spot subequal in size to pupil .: short and / or deep; Cross section: compressed.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Broadstriped cardinalfish is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
Diet information for Broadstriped cardinalfish is currently being compiled.
🥚 Reproduction
Mouthbrooders . Distinct pairing during courtship and spawning .
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; reef-associated; depth range 6 - 65 m . Tropical; 30°N - 24°S East Africa (Ref.
🌿 Ecology
polychaetes and other small benthic invertebrates at night; cryptic under ledges or in holes by day
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"Broadstriped cardinalfish 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 | 18.5 g |
| Omega-3 (total) | 135 mg |
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for Broadstriped cardinalfish has not yet been assigned. Please consult FDA/EPA guidance for general seafood safety advice.
🌿 Sustainability
🌐 Names & Taxonomy
Scientific Synonyms
| Scientific Name | Author | Year | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amia angustata | Smith & Radcliffe | 1911 | Synonym |
| Apogon angustata | Smith & Radcliffe | 1911 | Synonym |
| Ostorhynchus angustatus | Smith & Radcliffe | 1911 | Synonym |
🔍 Similar Species
🗺️ Global Occurrence Map
Occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) — 6 records indexed .
👥 Community & Contribute
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