Three Spot Cardinalfish

Juveniles have intense dark markings on a light background (Ref. 37816). Adults dusky (Ref. 48635).Description: Characterized by pale grey body color with dusky brown scale margins; narrow blackish bar extending to middle of side under first dorsal fin, similar bar under posterior most part of second dorsal fin; short black bar at level of origin of second dorsal fin; rear edge of gill cover with dark spot; greatest depth of body 2.5-2.7 in SL (Ref. 90102).

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

Dorsal spines (total): 7; Dorsal soft rays (total): 9; Analspines: 2; Analsoft rays: 8

An uncommon species found in coral-rich areas of lagoon and seaward reefs (Ref. 9710), in caves and other projections (Ref. 9137). Nocturnal species (Ref. 75154).

Inhabits inshore coral reefs (Ref. 40889). Nocturnal species (Ref. 7300). Solitary, also found in reef crevices and ledges in 1-35 m (Ref 90102).