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The Five-lined cardinalfish (Cheilodipterus quinquelineatus) is a small, nocturnal marine fish belonging to the family Apogonidae. It is characterized by its distinctive longitudinal stripes and relatively large eyes, typical of nocturnal species. This species is often found in association with coral reefs, seeking shelter during the day and emerging to feed at night.
Physical Characteristics
- Body shape
- elongated
- Coloration
- The body is typically silvery-white to pale grey, adorned with five prominent dark brown to black longitudinal stripes running from the snout to the caudal fin base. The fins are generally translucent, sometimes with a yellowish tint. A distinct black spot is often present at the base of the caudal fin.
- Scale type
- ctenoid
- Mouth position
- terminal
- Distinctive features
- Five dark longitudinal stripes on a pale body., Large eyes, indicative of nocturnal habits., Two separate dorsal fins., Relatively large mouth with small, sharp teeth.
- Dorsal fin
- Two separate dorsal fins; the first dorsal fin has 6-8 spines, and the second dorsal fin has 1 spine and 9-10 soft rays.
- Tail fin
- Forked caudal fin.
- Pectoral fin
- Pectoral fins are moderately sized, with 13-15 rays.
- Distinctive fins
- Pelvic fins are thoracic, located beneath the pectoral fins, with 1 spine and 5 soft rays. Anal fin has 2 spines and 8-9 soft rays.
Identification Tips
Stripes
Count the five distinct dark longitudinal stripes running along the body. This is the most reliable identifying feature.
Caudal Spot
Look for a prominent black spot at the base of the caudal fin, which is often present.
Body Shape
Observe the elongated body shape, typical of cardinalfishes, and the relatively large eyes.
Nocturnal Behavior
If observed during the day, they will likely be hidden. At night, they are more active and visible.
Habitat
- Water type
- saltwater
- Depth
- Typically found in shallow waters, ranging from 1 to 20 meters (3 to 65 feet), though occasionally deeper.
- Environment
- Coral reefs, rocky reefs, and rubble areas. They are often found sheltering in crevices, under ledges, or among branching corals during the day, emerging at night to feed.
- Geographic range
- Widespread throughout the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa eastward to the Line Islands and Tuamotu Archipelago, north to southern Japan, and south to Australia (Great Barrier Reef) and New Caledonia.
Aquarium Information
- Care level: intermediate
- Temperament: peaceful
- Diet: carnivore
- Minimum tank size: 30 gallons (114 liters)
- Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
- pH level: 8.1-8.4
- Hardness: 8-12 dKH
- Compatibility: Generally compatible with other peaceful reef-safe fish. Avoid housing with aggressive species or very small invertebrates that could be seen as prey.
- Special requirements: Requires ample hiding places, such as live rock formations or coral crevices, to feel secure during the day. A well-established tank with stable water parameters is crucial. They are nocturnal, so feeding should ideally occur after lights out or during dim lighting conditions.
Wild Information
- Conservation status: least concern
- Seasonality: No specific seasonal patterns for availability; present year-round within its range.
- Market price: Low
- Commercial importance: low
- Taste: Mild
- Texture: Soft, flaky
- Cooking methods: Steamed, Fried, Baked
- Nutritional value: Good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, typical of small reef fish.
Key Facts
Nocturnal Hunterbehavior
The Five-lined cardinalfish is primarily nocturnal, spending its days hidden in reef crevices and emerging at night to feed on small invertebrates and fish larvae.
Mouthbrooderbehavior
Like many cardinalfishes, Cheilodipterus quinquelineatus is a paternal mouthbrooder, where the male carries the eggs in his mouth until they hatch.
Reef Dwellerinteresting
This species is an integral part of coral reef ecosystems, contributing to the food web and providing a food source for larger predators.
Schooling Behaviorbehavior
While often solitary or in small groups during the day, they can form larger aggregations at night when feeding.
Safety Information
Safe- Safety level: safe
- Venomous: No
- Edibility: edible
- Handling notes: No specific handling precautions are required beyond standard fish handling practices to avoid stress to the fish. They are not venomous and do not possess any known harmful defenses.
Similar Species
Spotted cardinalfish
Cheilodipterus artus
C. artus typically has fewer, broader stripes (often 3-4) and may have small spots or blotches between the stripes, which are absent in C. quinquelineatus. The caudal spot in C. artus is often larger and more diffuse.
Tiger cardinalfish
Cheilodipterus macrodon
C. macrodon is generally larger and has fewer, thicker, and more irregular dark bands or blotches rather than distinct thin stripes. It also possesses noticeably larger teeth, particularly in the lower jaw.
Eight-lined cardinalfish
Cheilodipterus octovittatus
As its name suggests, C. octovittatus has eight longitudinal stripes, which is more than the five found on C. quinquelineatus.
Scientific Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Actinopterygii
- Order
- Kurtiformes
- Family
- Apogonidae
- Genus
- Cheilodipterus
- Species
- quinquelineatus
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