Ostorhinchus multilineatus

Datasheet

General Description:

The Many-lined cardinalfish (Ostorhinchus multilineatus), belonging to the Apogonidae family, is a species characterized by its various shapes and colors, making it a visually appealing addition to aquariums. With a large mouth and hearty appetite, these fish are known to feed on Artemia, Mysis, and krill, readily consuming a range of food in captivity. They may occasionally pose a threat to smaller fish, crustaceans, and shrimps due to their predatory nature, particularly in tanks with limited space or food availability.

Aquarium Suitability:

Considered suitable for aquaria, Many-lined cardinalfish are generally peaceful towards other fish but can display aggression towards each other if resources are scarce. Their nocturnal behavior leads them to seek hiding spots during the day, often found nestled between stones, SPS corals, or even within the spines of Sea urchins. Given their docile nature, caution is advised when housing them with more aggressive tankmates.

Demands:

With an average hardiness level, these fish require good hiding places in the aquarium, such as live rocks, to provide security and comfort. They can be kept either individually or in groups, and while they are known to be docile, monitoring their interactions with other species is recommended to prevent potential conflicts.

Care and Hardiness:

Many-lined cardinalfish thrive in a tank environment with stable water conditions, preferring a pH range of 8.1-8.4, a temperature between 22.2-25.6°C, and a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025. They tolerate a carbonate hardness (KH) of 8-12 and should be housed in a minimum tank size of 150 liters to accommodate their activity levels and potential group living tendencies.

Reef Suitability:

Categorized as always reef safe, Many-lined cardinalfish are compatible with reef setups, adding vibrancy and activity to the ecosystem without posing a risk to corals or other invertebrates commonly found in reef tanks.

Aquarium Setup:

For a suitable aquarium setup, provide ample hiding spaces, such as live rocks or artificial structures, to mimic their natural habitat and promote a sense of security. Maintaining stable water parameters and offering a varied diet that includes small crustaceans and zooplankton will contribute to the overall health and well-being of these cardinalfish in a captive environment.

Behaviour:

Many-lined cardinalfish exhibit nocturnal behavior, preferring to be more active during the night and seeking shelter during daylight hours. Their peaceful temperament makes them a favorable choice for community tanks, though monitoring their interactions with tankmates is essential to ensure harmonious cohabitation.

Feeding and Diet:

These fish have a diverse diet that includes small crustaceans like Krill, Mysis, and Artemia, as well as zooplankton such as Cyclops and pods. Offering a varied diet will help meet their nutritional needs and support their overall health in a captive setting.

Habitat and Distribution:

Found primarily in the Western Pacific region, including locations like Australia, Indonesia, and Central/West Pacific waters, Many-lined cardinalfish inhabit reef environments where they can seek refuge among rocky crevices, corals, and other natural structures. Their distribution range showcases their adaptability to varying marine conditions within the specified geographical areas.