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Shimmering cardinal
Taeniamia lineolata
© FishBase (CC BY-NC)The Shimmering cardinal (Taeniamia lineolata) is a small, colorful marine fish reaching about 10.3 cm. It frequents shallow coral and mangrove habitats and is prized by aquarium hobbyists rather than anglers, but can be caught on light tackle.
Fight
Taste
Basic Information
Family
Apogonidae
Max Size
10.3 cm
Habitat
marine
Depth Range
1-20m
Climate
tropical
Best Season
Warm tropical months (May‑October) when water temperatures are highest
Best Time
Early morning and late afternoon/evening
Distribution
Select a map type to show distribution on the globe.
Fishing Tips for Shimmering cardinal
- Use ultra‑light gear such as 2‑4 lb test line and a 4‑6 ft ultralight rod.
- Float a small split‑shot weight with a size 6‑8 hook baited with live brine shrimp or tiny mysid.
- Target schools near coral rubble or mangrove roots and employ a gentle jigging motion to provoke bites.
- Set the hook lightly; the fish are tiny and will often spit a heavy pull.
Market Prices
Recommended Fishing Equipment for Shimmering cardinal
Recommended Equipment
RodUltralight spinning rod, 4–5 ft, fast action
Line2‑4 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeMicro jigs or tiny soft‑plastic grubs, size 1‑2, or none (live bait only)
TechniqueFloat fishing with light split‑shot or gentle surface jigging
Best bait: Live brine shrimp, mysid shrimp, or tiny copepods