Goldbelly Cardinalfish

The Goldbelly Cardinalfish (Ostorhinchus apogonoides) is a tropical marine species, primarily associated with reef environments, inhabiting depths ranging from 3 to 60 meters, with a typical presence between 10 and 34 meters. The species reaches a maximum length of 10 cm, with a common length of approximately 8 cm.

Morphologically, the Goldbelly Cardinalfish exhibits a reddish dorsal side and a yellowish ventral side. It is distinguishable from A. aureus by its relatively lower body depth and the absence of a broad black band on the caudal peduncle. Juvenile specimens are characterized by a paler coloration with distinct short blue lines on the snout. In contrast, adult individuals display a deep golden hue with three rows of blue spots along the mid-lateral surface of their body.

This species prefers habitats such as rocky cliffs and is also found in environments ranging from sheltered coastal reefs to outer reefs, from shallow flats to depths exceeding 50 meters. Typically, Goldbelly Cardinalfish are observed in pairs, small groups, or occasionally forming larger schools; however, sightings are relatively infrequent. Their diet consists primarily of zooplankton and invertebrates.

Reproduction involves mouthbrooding behaviors, with distinct pair bonding during courtship and spawning activities.

Geographically, the species is distributed across the Indo-West Pacific region, from the 🌊 Red Sea and East Africa extending to the 🇵🇭 Philippines. Its range further includes northern localities to Miyakejima, 🇯🇵 Japan, and 🇹🇼 Taiwan, and extends southward to northern 🇦🇺 Australia and the Society Islands (🇵🇫 French Polynesia).