Yellow Cardinalfish

Ostorhinchus flavus

The Yellow Cardinalfish, known scientifically as Ostorhinchus flavus, is a ray-finned fish belonging to the cardinalfish family. It is primarily found in the Great Barrier Reef, Coral Sea, and Tasman Sea, specifically around Lord Howe Island and Norfolk Island. This species is also present in the southwest Pacific. Divers can recognize the Yellow Cardinalfish by its distinctive coloration and appearance. It closely resembles Ostorhinchus capricornis but can be differentiated by the two white stripes through its eye, unlike the neon blue stripes found in its counterpart. This species inhabits coral reefs and is typically found at depths ranging from 10 to 25 meters. The Yellow Cardinalfish is a benthic species, meaning it lives near the bottom of the ocean, often among coral structures. It is known for its mouthbrooding reproductive behavior, where males carry and protect the eggs in their mouths until they hatch. During courtship and spawning, the species forms distinct pairs. The Yellow Cardinalfish is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Divers encountering this fish can expect to see it in pairs, often near coral formations.