Frans' Cardinalfish

This species is distinguished by having D VII-I,9; A II,8; pectoral rays 14; lateral line scales 24; predorsal scales 5; gill rakers 3-4+14-16, excluding 2-3 rudiments on upper limb; preopercular margin serrate; preopercular ridge very weakly serrate around angle; body depth 3.1-3.7 in SL; mainly semi-transparent in life with 2 narrow dark (coppery, Ref. 37816) stripes on upper half of body and relatively large, black spot at the base of the caudal fin (Ref. 11893).

Mouthbrooders (Ref. 240). Distinct pairing during courtship and spawning (Ref. 205).

Dorsal spines (total): 8; Dorsal soft rays (total): 9; Analspines: 2; Analsoft rays: 8; Vertebrae: 24

Inhabits steep drop-offs; usually seen in caves or under ledges during the day in 13-40 m depth (Ref. 11893). Forms groups in crevices (Ref 90102).

Inhabits steep drop-offs; usually seen in caves or under ledges during the day in 13-40 m depth (Ref. 11893). Forms groups in crevices (Ref 90102).