Orange Lined Cardinalfish

Introduction

The Orange Lined Cardinalfish is a striking and peaceful marine species that adds a touch of elegance to any aquarium. Known for its distinctive orange lines running across its translucent body, this fish is often admired for its unique color pattern and peaceful nature. The Orange Lined Cardinalfish is relatively hardy, making it a great choice for both beginner and experienced marine aquarists. It thrives in reef setups and does well with other peaceful tank mates.

Scientific Name

Apogon cyanosoma

Common Name

• Orange Lined Cardinalfish

• Blue-lined Cardinalfish

• Orange-lined Apogon

Water Quality and Temperature

The Orange Lined Cardinalfish requires high-quality water to thrive, with a well-maintained tank environment. It is essential to provide a stable and clean environment for this species.

• Temperature: 75°F – 82°F (24°C – 28°C)

• pH Level: 8.1 – 8.4 (slightly alkaline)

• Salinity: 1.020 – 1.025 (specific gravity)

• Filtration: A good quality filtration system is essential to keep the water clean and clear. Moderate to strong water flow is ideal to mimic the natural reef environment.

• Water Changes: Regular water changes, around 10-20% weekly, will help maintain water quality.

Feeding

The Orange Lined Cardinalfish is carnivorous and feeds primarily on small crustaceans and plankton in its natural habitat. In the aquarium, it should be provided with a diet high in protein to keep it healthy and active.

• Preferred Diet:

  • High-quality frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and plankton

  • Marine pellets or flake foods designed for carnivorous fish

  • Occasional feeding of small pieces of finely chopped fish or meaty foods

• Feeding Frequency: Feed once or twice a day, offering small portions that can be consumed in a few minutes.

Tank Mates

The Orange Lined Cardinalfish is a peaceful and non-aggressive species, making it ideal for community tanks with other tranquil fish. It should be kept with other species that will not harass it or outcompete it for food.

• Compatible Tank Mates:

  • Peaceful reef fish such as clownfish, small wrasses, gobies, and other small cardinalfish species

  • Invertebrates like shrimp and snails

  • Other peaceful species that thrive in a reef environment

• Avoid:

  • Larger or aggressive species such as groupers, lionfish, or predatory fish

  • Fish that may outcompete the cardinalfish for food

Substrates and Tank Decorations

This species enjoys an environment that mimics its natural reef habitat. The tank should have plenty of hiding spots where it can feel secure, and a mix of open swimming areas.

• Substrate:

  • Fine sand or small gravel is ideal for the bottom of the tank.

• Tank Decorations:

  • Live rocks and coral formations are essential for creating hiding places and adding to the aesthetic of the aquarium.

  • The fish prefers moderately illuminated environments with ample hiding spots.

  • The tank should not be overcrowded, as this could stress the fish.

Suitable Plants

While the Orange Lined Cardinalfish does not require live plants, adding plants to the tank can enhance the natural environment and provide extra hiding spots.

• Best Plant Choices:

  • Hardy plants like Java Fern or Anubias can be added to the aquarium.

  • Macroalgae, such as Chaetomorpha or Caulerpa, is often used in reef tanks to enhance the environment and water quality.

Sexing

Sexing the Orange Lined Cardinalfish is generally difficult, as males and females look very similar. However, males may exhibit slightly larger, more pronounced orange lines during breeding periods.

• Males tend to have slightly more vibrant colorations and may display a more intense orange pattern when courting females.

• Females are generally rounder, particularly when carrying eggs.

Breeding

Breeding the Orange Lined Cardinalfish in captivity is possible, though it can be challenging. This species is mouthbrooding, meaning that females carry the fertilized eggs in their mouths until they hatch.

• Breeding Conditions:

  • A stable, mature aquarium with optimal water conditions is essential.

  • Providing a tank with plenty of hiding spaces will help facilitate natural breeding behavior.

  • Breeding pairs are typically formed in peaceful tanks with ample hiding places, where males can court females.

  • After fertilization, the female will carry the eggs in her mouth for about 2-3 weeks before releasing fully developed fry.

Maximum Size and Longevity

• Size: The Orange Lined Cardinalfish typically grows to a maximum length of 3 inches (7.5 cm).

• Lifespan: With proper care, this species can live for up to 3-5 years in captivity.

General Information

The Orange Lined Cardinalfish is known for its striking appearance, characterized by translucent body coloration with vibrant orange lines running across the body. It is a nocturnal species, typically more active during the night and during low light conditions. In the wild, it can be found in coral reefs, where it feeds on plankton and small invertebrates. This species is generally peaceful, though it can become timid when first introduced to a new environment.

It is important to provide plenty of hiding spots in the aquarium, as the fish may become stressed if it feels exposed. Keeping them with other peaceful species will help them thrive and exhibit natural behaviors.

A Fun Fact

The Orange Lined Cardinalfish is an excellent example of mouthbrooding behavior. The female carries the fertilized eggs in her mouth until they hatch, which helps protect the developing fry from predators in the wild. After releasing the fry, the parents may continue to care for their young, offering them a safe refuge in their mouths if necessary!