Mandarin Fish
Synchiropus splendidus
Also known as: Mandarin Dragonet, Mandarin Goby
The Mandarin Fish is considered one of the most beautiful fish in the ocean, with psychedelic swirls of blue, orange, and green. However, they are challenging to keep as they typically only eat live copepods.
Max Size
3 inches (7.5 cm)
Lifespan
10-15 years
Depth
1-18 meters
Water Type
saltwater
Scientific Classification
- Class
- Actinopterygii
- Order
- Perciformes
- Family
- Callionymidae
- Species
- Synchiropus splendidus
Habitat & Distribution
Habitat
Distribution
Behavior
Mandarin fish are slow, deliberate swimmers that hop along the bottom searching for tiny prey. They are peaceful but males will fight each other. They mate at dusk in an elegant rising dance.
Reproduction
Pairs perform a courtship dance at sunset, rising from the reef together and releasing eggs and sperm simultaneously. Eggs hatch in about 18-24 hours.
Aquarium Care Guide
Minimum Tank Size
30 gallons
Care Level
Difficult
Temperament
Peaceful
Temperature
75°F - 80°F
Diet
Carnivore - copepods, amphipods, live foods
Conservation Status
Main Threats
- Collection for aquarium trade
🎉 Fun Facts
- They have no scales - instead covered in smelly mucus
- Their colors warn predators they taste bad
- Mandarins mate in a beautiful "dance" at sunset
- They are one of only two fish species that produce blue pigment
- Their mucus is toxic to many predators
