Sponge Cardinalfish

Phaeoptyx xenus

Sponge Cardinalfish

This little cardinalfish tucks itself inside cylindrical sponges on coral reefs and rocky bottoms. It grows to only about 8 centimetres and, like others of its kind, shelters by day and feeds after dark.

Taxonomy: Animalia › Chordata › Teleostei › Apogoniformes › Apogonidae › Phaeoptyx

Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 282228.

FAQ

How deep does the Sponge Cardinalfish live?
The Sponge Cardinalfish (Phaeoptyx xenus) is typically found at 5–60 m.
Is the Sponge Cardinalfish dangerous to divers?
The Sponge Cardinalfish is harmless to divers.
How big does the Sponge Cardinalfish get?
The Sponge Cardinalfish grows to about 7.5 cm.