Talbot’s Cardinalfish

Talbot's Cardinalfish, also known as the Flame Cardinalfish (Apogon talboti), is a tropical marine species commonly associated with reef environments, inhabiting depths ranging from 1 to 37 meters. This species can reach a maximum length of 14 cm.

Typically found in caves and under ledges, Talbot's Cardinalfish is solitary and rarely observed during the day as it tends to hide in crevices. Notably, they exhibit mouthbrooding behavior and engage in distinct pairing rituals during courtship and spawning periods.

Morphologically, Apogon talboti is characterized by having 7 dorsal spines, 9 dorsal soft rays, 2 anal spines, and 8 anal soft rays. The species is distributed throughout the Indo-Pacific region.

The genus name "Apogon" is derived from the Greek words 'a' meaning without and 'pogon' meaning chin or beard, which refers to the appearance of the fish.