Twoline Cardinalfish

The Twoline Cardinalfish (Taeniamia bilineata) is a tropical marine species commonly associated with reef environments, predominantly found at depths ranging from 1 to 12 meters. The maximum recorded length of this species is 3.8 centimeters.

The genus name Taeniamia is derived from the Latin word 'taenia,' meaning ribbon or band, and the Greek word 'Amia,' referring to a fish, which is a common suffix in the naming of cardinalfish genera. This nomenclature highlights the characteristic vertical and curved narrow bars present on many species within this genus. The species name 'bilineata' originates from the Latin words 'bi' meaning two, and 'lineata' meaning lines, referencing the two distinct dark stripes on the body of the fish.

The Twoline Cardinalfish is typically observed with a spot on the tail base, surrounded by a yellow area, and is often found in small groups near coral heads, particularly in silty reef areas. This species is known for its mouthbrooding reproductive behavior, with distinct pairing observed during courtship and spawning.

Geographically, this species is endemic to the 🌊 Western Indian Ocean, specifically within the 🌊 Red Sea region.