Five-lined Cardinal

The Five-lined Cardinal (Cheilodipterus quinquelineatus) is a captivating species of marine fish belonging to the Apogonidae family. Found throughout the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea, this species is known for its striking appearance and social behavior. Typically reaching a maximum size of 13 cm (5.1 in), these fish are easily recognizable due to their distinctive five vertical stripes that run along their bodies, contributing to their common name.

In terms of natural history, Five-lined Cardinals are typically found in shallow waters, often inhabiting coral reefs and rocky substrates where they seek shelter among the crevices. Their diet primarily consists of small zooplankton and crustaceans, which they adeptly hunt during the twilight hours. This nocturnal feeding behavior, combined with their schooling nature, makes them a delightful spectacle in their natural habitat.

Behaviorally, these fish exhibit a strong social structure, often forming schools that can number in the hundreds. They are known to be relatively peaceful, making them suitable for community tanks. Their vibrant colors and playful swimming patterns can add dynamic movement and visual interest to any aquarium. In addition, they play a crucial role in the reef ecosystem by helping to control plankton populations and providing food for larger predators.

From a conservation perspective, the Five-lined Cardinal is currently not listed as threatened, and it is commonly found in many tropical habitats. This species is also resilient in captivity, adapting well to aquarium life when provided with the right care and environment.

When caring for the Five-lined Cardinal, maintaining stable water parameters is crucial for their health and well-being. Ideal water temperature should range between 24°C to 28°C, with a salinity level of 1.020 to 1.025 ppt. The pH should be maintained between 8.1 and 8.4. A minimum tank size of 100 liters is recommended to allow for swimming space and to accommodate their social schooling behavior.

Feeding these fish is straightforward, as they thrive on a varied diet of high-quality marine flakes, frozen foods, and live foods such as brine shrimp or small mysis shrimp. Their peaceful nature makes them compatible with other non-aggressive species, but caution should be exercised when introducing them to tanks with larger or predatory fish.

Acclimation should be done slowly to minimize stress. A drip acclimation method is recommended, gradually introducing them to the new tank environment over several hours. Quarantine for at least two weeks before introducing them to the main tank will help prevent the spread of any potential diseases. Regular monitoring for signs of stress or illness is essential to ensure a thriving population of Five-lined Cardinals in your aquarium.

The Five-lined Cardinal is suitable for shipping due to its hardiness and adaptability. When packing, a density of approximately 1-2 fish per liter is recommended to minimize stress during transit. Temperature should be kept stable between 24°C to 26°C to ensure their comfort. This species is not listed under CITES, making shipping regulations more straightforward for importers.