Fiveline Cardinalfish

The five-lined cardinalfish, Cheilodipterus quinquelineatus, is a species of marine fish in the family Apogonidae. It is widespread throughout the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region, Red Sea included. It can reach a maximum size of 13 cm in length.

Description

The Fiveline Cardinalfish is whitish yellow with five black stripes on the sides of the body. The caudal peduncle is yellow with a black spot at the base of the middle rays of the caudal fin. The species has large canine teeth. Characterized by having dorsal fin rays VI-I, 9; anal fin rays II,8; pectoral fin rays 12; pelvic fin rays I, 5; pored lateral line scales 24-25; predorsal scales 6; circumpeduncular scales 12; large canine-like teeth on jaws; serrated preopercular margin.

Distribution

Indo-Pacific: Red Sea to Mozambique and eastward to the Pitcairn Group, north to southern Japan, south to Lord Howe Island and Rapa.

Habitat and Biology

Inhabits reef flats and lagoon and seaward reefs to a depth of 40 m or more. Occurs singly or in small to large aggregations, taking shelter in dark crevices, branched coral, under ledges, and among the spines of Diadema setosum. Nocturnal species. Feeds on small crustaceans and gastropods, also on small fishes. Generally common. Has been reared in captivity. Mouthbrooders. Distinct pairing during courtship and spawning.