---
title: Mottled Cardinalfish (Fowleria vaiulae)
scientific_name: Fowleria vaiulae
common_name: Mottled Cardinalfish
taxon: Cardinals
conservation_status: LC - Least Concern
published: 2024-11-08T16:51:03.189Z
updated: 2025-11-25T13:58:09.000Z
tags: Mottled Cardinalfish, Fowleria vaiulae, Cardinals, Red Sea, Marine Life, Diving
url: https://redseacreatures.com/taxon/fishes/bony-fishes/cardinals/mottled-cardinalfish
---

# Mottled Cardinalfish (*Fowleria vaiulae*)

**Taxon:** Cardinals (*Apogonidae*)  
**Conservation Status:** LC - Least Concern  


The Mottled Cardinalfish (Fowleria vaiulae) is a tropical marine species commonly found in reef-associated environments, typically at depths ranging from 3 to 25 meters, with a usual range of 3 to 15 meters. The species reaches a maximum length of 5 cm.

Morphologically, the Mottled Cardinalfish is characterized by having 8 dorsal spines, 9 dorsal soft rays, 2 anal spines, and 8 anal soft rays. Its coloration is mottled brown, marked by 6 to 8 pale bars and 3 to 4 dark bands that radiate from the eye area.

This species predominantly occurs inshore, residing amongst Acropora coral formations. It primarily feeds on small invertebrates and displays a solitary and cryptic nature. Notably, the Mottled Cardinalfish engages in distinct pairing behaviors during courtship and spawning periods.

The geographical distribution of Fowleria vaiulae spans the Indo-Pacific region, including the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Mauritius, and Rodriguez Islands, extending to the Line Islands and Tonga. Its range extends northward to Japan and southward to northern Australia, New Caledonia, and the Loyalty Islands.

---

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