Spot-fin Cardinalfish, Unicolor Cardinalfish

Small (typically 2-7 inches), slender fish with a diverse color range, often with distinctive markings. They are opportunistic feeders, primarily consuming small crustaceans and larvae, and exhibit a range of social behaviors including territoriality and harem formation. They play a role in reef ecosystems and are vulnerable to habitat loss and overfishing.

Coral reefs, lagoon reefs, rocky reefs, and seagrass beds, typically in clear, warm waters and seeking shelter near coral branches or within caves. Depth: up to 100 feet (30 meters)

Pelagic spawning; small, buoyant eggs drift with currents; planktonic larvae; juveniles settle near reefs; adults form small schools, exhibiting territorial and harem-forming behaviors.

Occasionally consumed in Southeast Asia and Pacific Islands. Mild and slightly sweet flavor, usually grilled, fried, or steamed whole.