Collected from exposed coral reefs . Solitary, also found in outer reef slopes in 15-80 m (Ref 90102).
Dorsal spines (total): 7; Dorsal soft rays (total): 9; Anal spines: 2; Anal soft rays: 9. Color in alcohol light brown. Color in life light reddish brown, the edges of scales darker than centers. Two faint blackish bars on body, one beneath each dorsal fin. A small blackish spot midposteriorly on caudal peduncle. A faint blackish spot of about the same size on opercle, with a faint pale area around it, and a faint dark marking above. A thin blackish steak extending posteriorly and slightly downward from lower edge of eye. First dorsal fin light brown with a broad blackish anterior margin and a pale bluish posterior margin. Second dorsal and anal fins light brownish red with a basal band of yellowish dark brown edged with pale bluish. Caudal fin light reddish brown, the upper and lower edges dark brown. Pectoral fins light red. Pelvic fins with clear membranes, the rays orange-yellow, the lateral edge brownish. Iris mainly yellow (Ref 40889).: short and / or deep; Cross section: compressed.
Behavioural data for Rufus cardinalfish is currently being reviewed.
Mouthbrooders . Distinct pairing during courtship and spawning .
Marine; reef-associated; depth range 15 - 80 m . Tropical
The following diseases are known to affect Rufus cardinalfish.
No observations yet - be the first to log one!
View all observations for Rufus cardinalfish ↗Spotted incorrect or outdated data? Submit a correction and our editorial team will review it. Approved edits go live within 48 hours.
Found a factual error, broken data, or inappropriate content? Let us know and we will investigate promptly.