---
title: Cave Cardinalfish (Zapogon isus)
scientific_name: Zapogon isus
common_name: Cave Cardinalfish
taxon: Cardinals

published: 2024-11-08T21:55:19.497Z
updated: 2025-11-25T13:58:09.000Z
tags: Cave Cardinalfish, Zapogon isus, Cardinals, Red Sea, Marine Life, Diving
url: https://redseacreatures.com/taxon/fishes/bony-fishes/cardinals/cave-cardinalfish
---

# Cave Cardinalfish (*Zapogon isus*)

**Taxon:** Cardinals (*Apogonidae*)  


The Cave Cardinalfish (Zapogon isus) is a tropical, reef-associated marine species found at depths ranging from 6 to 20 meters. It can grow to a maximum length of 5.6 cm. This species is characterized by a distinctive black and white spot on the upper base of its tail.

Notably, the Cave Cardinalfish exhibits mouthbrooding behavior and forms distinct pairs during courtship and spawning.

This fish is endemic to the Red Sea.

---

*Source: [Red Sea Creatures](https://redseacreatures.com/taxon/fishes/bony-fishes/cardinals/cave-cardinalfish)*
*Updated: November 25, 2025*