Mandarinfish
Image: nlarghi (cc-by-nc)
NameMandarinfish
Scientific NameSynchiropus splendidus
Common NamesMandarinfish, Mandarin Dragonet, Striped Mandarinfish, Green Mandarinfish
FamilyCallionymidae
OriginWestern Pacific Ocean, Ryukyu Islands, Australia
Temperamentpeaceful
Dietcarnivore
Care Leveladvanced
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)30
Max Size (Inches)3
Water TypeSaltwater
Temperature Range (°F)75-82
pH Range8.1-8.4
Compatible SpeciesClownfish, Gobies (peaceful species), Blennies (peaceful species), Firefish, Royal Gramma, Pajama Cardinalfish, Most reef-safe invertebrates
Description
The Mandarinfish is a strikingly colorful and peaceful saltwater fish known for its intricate patterns of blue, orange, and green. They are benthic dwellers, slowly moving along the substrate and live rock in search of their specialized diet of copepods and other microfauna. Due to their specific dietary needs, they require a mature, well-established reef aquarium with a thriving copepod population.
