Duskytail Cardinalfish

Taeniamia macroptera

The Duskytail Cardinalfish, belonging to the family Apogonidae, is a small reef-associated fish found in the Indo-West Pacific, particularly in the eastern Indian Ocean and western Pacific regions. It reaches a maximum length of 9.5 cm. The fish is characterized by its compressed body shape and distinct fin ray counts, with 7 dorsal spines and 9 dorsal soft rays, and 2 anal spines with 13 to 15 anal soft rays. Its lateral-line scales number 25 plus an additional 3 to 5 scales, and it lacks basilingual teeth. The posterior preopercular edge is completely or nearly serrate, a notable feature for identification. This species inhabits lagoons and fringing coral and rocky reefs, typically found at depths ranging from 2 to 20 meters. It prefers clear waters with sandy or rubble bottoms and is often seen in aggregations among branching corals. The Duskytail Cardinalfish exhibits mouthbrooding behavior and forms distinct pairs during courtship and spawning. Divers encountering this species can expect to see them in groups, often mingling with other cardinalfish. The Duskytail Cardinalfish is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.