The Ghost Cardinalfish (Apogon leptacanthus or Zoramia leptacantha) is a marine (saltwater) fish in the Apogonidae family.

The Ghost Cardinalfish has a compressed body with a large head, large mouth, and large round eyes. Its lower jaw protrudes over its upper jaw. It is silver with a light-black bar on the caudal fin. Underneath its eyes is a thin, black line extending backwards. It has two dorsal (back) fins.

It grows to about 6 centimetres (2.5 inches) in length. 

It is native to the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean. It prefers shallow tropical bays and reefs. 

It is nocturnal, active mostly at night. During the day, it rests in cavities or caves individually or in small groups.

It feeds on small fish, plankton, and invertebrates, such as worms. 

The Ghost Cardinalfish forms groups, called shoals, of about 5-7 individuals.

It is a mouthbrooding fish. After the female lays eggs, the male puts them in his mouth to prevent other fish from eating them. As the eggs hatch into small fish, called fry, the male continues to protect them in his mouth. 

Location of photograph: Aquarium de Paris-Cinéaqua

Photographer: Martina Nicolls

Martina Nicolls: SIMILAR BUT DIFFERENT IN THE ANIMAL KINGDOM