The Pencil Cardinal (Apogon leptacanthus), also known as the Threadfin Cardinalfish, is a small, schooling marine species found primarily in the Indo-Pacific region, including the waters around Indonesia, the Philippines, and Papua New Guinea. This fish is characterized by its slender, translucent body and distinctive fin filaments. While not a major target for large-scale commercial fisheries, Pencil Cardinals are harvested mainly for the ornamental aquarium trade rather than for food. Indonesia and the Philippines are the top countries involved in the collection and export of this species, owing to their rich coral reef habitats and well-established ornamental fish industries. Sustainable collection practices and habitat conservation are increasingly important in these regions to ensure the long-term viability of Pencil Cardinal populations and the livelihoods of local fishers.
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Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.