Cheilodipterus Quinquelineatus (The Five-Lined Cardinalfish)

Overview

• Native to the Indo-Pacific, commonly found in coral reefs, lagoons, and coastal reef slopes.
• Easily identified by its elongated body featuring five distinct black horizontal lines running along its golden-yellow body.
• A hardy and peaceful species that adapts well to aquarium life when provided with the right conditions.
• Often found in small groups or hovering around branching corals and rocky formations in the wild.
• Best suited for a well-established marine aquarium with ample hiding spots and peaceful tankmates.

Feeding

• Carnivorous, primarily feeding on small crustaceans, zooplankton, and tiny fish in the wild.
• Thrives on a diet of frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and high-quality marine pellets in captivity.
• Readily accepts prepared foods but benefits from occasional live feedings to mimic natural hunting behavior.
• Multiple small feedings per day support digestion and maintain energy levels.
• A protein-rich diet ensures proper growth, immune health, and enhanced coloration.

Habitat

• Prefers coral reef environments with moderate water movement and plenty of overhangs for shelter.
• Frequently found near coral branches and rocky outcrops where it can take refuge.
• Aquarium setups should include live rock to provide grazing opportunities and security.
• Requires stable water conditions and high-quality filtration to prevent stress.
• Providing shaded areas alongside open swimming spaces allows for natural behaviors.

Fish Care

• Optimal water temperature: 74-80°F (23-27°C) to maintain overall well-being.
• Preferred pH range: 8.1-8.4, with a salinity level of 1.020-1.025.
• Requires stable water parameters with frequent water changes to ensure longevity.
• Reef-safe, as it does not typically harm corals or sessile invertebrates.
• Providing live rock enhances hiding opportunities and supports natural feeding behaviors.

Compatibility

• Generally peaceful and suitable for community tanks.
• Compatible with other small, non-aggressive reef fish, including clownfish, gobies, and blennies.
• Best kept in small groups to encourage natural schooling behavior.
• Should not be housed with large or aggressive predators that may view it as food.
• Providing plenty of hiding spaces minimizes stress and encourages natural social interactions.

Aquarium Behavior

• An active but cautious species that prefers staying near shelter.
• Often observed hovering near coral structures or swimming in small groups.
• Becomes more confident in the presence of peaceful tankmates.
• Providing live rock encourages natural behaviors and a sense of security.
• Over time, it may become more interactive with its caretaker, especially during feeding times.