Mimic Cardinalfish
Cheilodipterus nigrotaeniatus
- Group: Other
- Typical depth: 2–25 m
- Max size: 10 cm
- For divers: safe
- IUCN status: LC
This cardinalfish copies the venomous fang blenny Meiacanthus grammistes, even swimming with its tail like the blenny rather than its pectoral fins to keep up the disguise. If approached it drops the act and darts straight for cover in the reef.
Taxonomy: Animalia › Chordata › Teleostei › Apogoniformes › Apogonidae › Cheilodipterus
Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 278893.
FAQ
- How deep does the Mimic Cardinalfish live?
- The Mimic Cardinalfish (Cheilodipterus nigrotaeniatus) is typically found at 2–25 m.
- Is the Mimic Cardinalfish dangerous to divers?
- The Mimic Cardinalfish is harmless to divers.
- How big does the Mimic Cardinalfish get?
- The Mimic Cardinalfish grows to about 10 cm.