Mottled Cardinalfish

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 (🇫🇷 Overseas France), and the Loyalty Islands.