How difficult is it to keep Mandarin Dragonet?

Advanced. This is an advanced-level species. It requires specialized equipment and advanced husbandry skills with precise environmental control.

What is the ideal temperature for Mandarin Dragonet?

The ideal temperature for Mandarin Dragonet is 24〜27℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.

What is the lifespan of Mandarin Dragonet?

The average lifespan of Mandarin Dragonet is 5-10 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.

How large does Mandarin Dragonet get?

Mandarin Dragonet typically reaches 6-8cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.

What should I feed Mandarin Dragonet?

Mandarin Dragonet feeds on: Copepods and other micro-crustaceans. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.

What is the typical price for Mandarin Dragonet?

The price of Mandarin Dragonet varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Mandarin Dragonet

Advanced

Synchiropus splendidus

Often called the most beautiful marine fish with psychedelic maze-like patterns. Feeds on copepods, making it challenging to keep.

Difficulty

Advanced

Temperature

24〜27℃

Lifespan

5-10 years

Size

6-8cm

Diet

Copepods and other micro-crustaceans

About

The mandarinfish (Synchiropus splendidus) is a small dragonet of the family Callionymidae inhabiting the tropical coral reefs of the western Pacific Ocean. Its intricate camouflage of interlocking blue, green, orange, and black whorls is widely considered among the most beautiful patterning found in any vertebrate. The species lacks scales; instead, its body is coated in a foul-smelling mucus that deters predators. Care requirements are demanding: mandarinfish rarely accept prepared foods and must be sustained by live copepods and other micro-crustaceans proliferating in mature live rock. A well-established reef aquarium of 100 litres or more with densely populated live rock is essential. This species is best suited to experienced marine aquarists.

Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Lifespan of the Mandarin Dragonet

The Mandarin Dragonet lives 5-10 years.

Size of the Mandarin Dragonet

The Mandarin Dragonet grows to 6-8cm.

Temperature & humidity for the Mandarin Dragonet

The ideal temperature for the Mandarin Dragonet is 24〜27℃.

Basic Info

Origin

Tropical coral reefs of the western Pacific Ocean, from the Ryukyu Islands to northern Australia

Lifespan

5-10 years

Care Specifications

pH: 8.1–8.4
Water Temp.: 24–27℃
Specific Gravity: 1.02–1.025
Salinity: 33–35 ppt
Min. Tank: 114 L

PeacefulReef safe

Sources: LiveAquaria

References & Sources

Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team

The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.

Primary sources

Taxonomy & Authority

Accepted name: Synchiropus splendidus (Herre, 1927)

Synonyms: Callionymus splendidus, Neosynchiropus splendidus, Pterosynchiropus splendidus

Authority databases: WoRMS · GBIF

Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.

Regulations & Conservation Status

Not CITES-listedIUCN LC · Least Concern

Sources: CITES Appendices (species not listed) / IUCN Red List / Ministry of the Environment Specified Animal List / Ministry of the Environment: List of Designated Invasive Species

Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.