Biosecurity Shipping Limitations apply
Shipping Allowed?
| Tasmania |
YES |
| Western Australia |
YES |
| Northern Territory |
NO |
| All Other States |
YES |
Β
About 4 Lined Cardinalfish
The 4 Lined Cardinalfish is a striking Australian marine cardinalfish recognised by its silvery body and four prominent dark longitudinal lines. The fins and lower body can develop attractive reddish to pinkish tones, while a dark marking is present near the caudal peduncle.
This peaceful species is associated with shallow coastal reefs, sandy areas and weedy habitats. It is generally most active around dusk and at night, making it an interesting addition to a reef or peaceful marine community aquarium.
4 Lined Cardinalfish can be kept singly or in compatible groups, with plenty of rockwork, caves and shaded areas providing shelter. Like many cardinalfish, they are slow, deliberate swimmers and are best housed with peaceful tankmates.
They are carnivorous/planktivorous and readily accept a varied diet of small marine foods, including mysis shrimp, brine shrimp and quality marine pellets.
Quick Care Guide
-
Scientific Name: Ostorhinchus doederleini
-
Common Name: 4 Lined Cardinalfish, Four-Lined Cardinalfish
-
Family: Apogonidae
-
Type: Marine cardinalfish
-
Adult Size: Approximately 14 cm
-
Temperament: Peaceful
-
Care Level: Easy to Moderate
-
Minimum Aquarium: 150 litres
-
Temperature: 23β27Β°C
-
pH: 8.0β8.4
-
Salinity: 1.023β1.026 SG
-
Diet: Carnivore; mysis, brine shrimp, marine pellets and other meaty foods
-
Tank Level: Middle and lower levels
-
Group Size: Single or compatible group
-
Reef Safe: Yes
-
Activity: More active around dusk and at night
-
Aquarium Setup: Rockwork, caves and sheltered areas
Frequently Asked Questions
Are 4 Lined Cardinalfish reef safe?
Yes. They are generally considered reef compatible and do not normally bother corals.
How big do 4 Lined Cardinalfish get?
They can reach approximately 14 cm in maximum length, although aquarium specimens are often smaller.
Can they be kept in groups?
Yes. The species can naturally occur in small groups. Providing sufficient space and hiding places helps reduce competition.
What do 4 Lined Cardinalfish eat?
They accept meaty marine foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp and quality marine pellets. A varied diet is recommended.
Are they suitable for a community reef tank?
Yes, provided their tankmates are peaceful and appropriately sized. Avoid aggressive fish that may continually harass them.
Are they active during the day?
They can be relatively subdued during daylight and become more active around dusk and at night.
Common Mistakes
- Keeping them with aggressive or highly territorial fish.
- Providing too few caves or sheltered areas.
- Offering an overly limited diet.
- Adding them to an immature aquarium with unstable water quality.
- Keeping too many fish in a confined space.
- Allowing salinity and temperature to fluctuate significantly.
