Apogon imberbis

10cm
10-200m
428 sites
Apogonidae
Imagine descending into the twilight zone of a Mediterranean reef, where shadows dance and the water grows cooler. There, huddled in caves and crevices, you might spot a cluster of ruby-red eyes gleaming back at you – the Mediterranean Cardinalfish (Apogon imberbis). These small, vibrant fish add a splash of colour to the darker corners of the reef. While not always the most common sight, encountering a school of these nocturnal beauties is a memorable experience. They're often found sheltering under rocky overhangs or within small caves, sometimes forming surprisingly large aggregations. Keep an eye out, as they're most active at night, venturing out to hunt their tiny prey. Spotting one is a treat; finding a group is truly special!
The Mediterranean Cardinalfish is easily recognized by its striking red colouration, though this can appear more orange or pink depending on the light and depth. Its large, prominent eyes are another key feature, adapted for seeing in low-light conditions. The body is oval-shaped and slightly compressed laterally. A distinctive black spot is visible near the base of the pectoral fin. These fish typically reach around 10cm, but can grow larger.