Apogon

/ˈæpəɡɒn/ noun

Definition

A small colorful fish of the cardinal fish family, typically found in tropical and subtropical seas.

Etymology

From Greek apo- (without) + gonia (angle), referring to the fish's lacking a certain angular feature, or from apo- + gony (jaw). The scientific name emphasizes distinguishing anatomical features.

Kelly Says

Cardinal fish hide in tiny crevices on coral reefs and hunt at night, and their name literally means 'without angle'—which makes sense when you see their rounded body shape adapted for squeezing into tight spaces.

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