Green Mandarin Dragonet (Synchiropus splendidus)

Quick Stats:

• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet: Carnivore
• Reef Safe: Yes
• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
• Nature Max Size: Up to 4 inches
• Water Parameters: pH: 8.1-8.4, Salinity: 1.020-1.025, Temperature: 72-78°F

Comprehensive Guide: Green Mandarin Dragonet (Synchiropus splendidus)

Habitat:

The Green Mandarin Dragonet, also known as Synchiropus splendidus, is found in the Pacific Ocean, particularly in the waters around the Philippines and Indonesia. They inhabit coral reefs, lagoons, and shallow coastal areas with plenty of hiding spots.

Reef Safe:

The Green Mandarin Dragonet is generally considered reef safe, as it will not harm corals or other invertebrates. However, it is important to note that they may compete with other fish for food, especially in smaller tanks with limited food supply.

Size:

The Green Mandarin Dragonet can grow up to 4 inches in length, making it a relatively small fish for saltwater aquariums.

Temperament:

These dragonets have a peaceful temperament and are generally non-aggressive towards other tank mates. However, they can be territorial, especially when it comes to their feeding territory.

Sexual Dimorphism:

The male Green Mandarin Dragonet often has more vibrant coloration compared to the female, with brighter patterns and longer fins.

Lifespan:

In the wild, the average lifespan of a Green Mandarin Dragonet is around 2-4 years. With proper care and optimal conditions in captivity, they can live up to 5-6 years.

Diet in Aquariums:

In aquariums, it is essential to provide a varied diet for the Green Mandarin Dragonet. Their natural diet consists of small crustaceans, copepods, and amphipods. To ensure their nutritional needs are met, you may need to supplement their diet with live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and copepods.

Aquascaping Recommendations:

When setting up the aquarium for the Green Mandarin Dragonet, it is important to provide plenty of hiding spots and live rock structures. This will mimic their natural habitat and offer them places to hide and explore. Additionally, a well-established refugium can help provide a constant supply of copepods and amphipods as a natural food source.

Availability as Captive Bred:

The Green Mandarin Dragonet is available as captive-bred, but due to their specific dietary requirements, it is recommended to ensure that they are trained to accept prepared foods before purchasing them.

Compatibility with Other Fish, Invertebrates, or Corals:

The Green Mandarin Dragonet can be compatible with many peaceful fish species, as long as they are not overly aggressive or territorial. Suitable tank mates include small gobies, firefish, clownfish, and certain species of wrasses. It is important to avoid housing them with larger predatory fish or aggressive tank mates that may outcompete them for food.

Five Specific Tankmates:

• 1. Firefish (Nemateleotris magnifica): Firefish are peaceful and colorful, making them an excellent choice as tank mates for the Green Mandarin Dragonet.
• 2. Clownfish (Amphiprion species): Clownfish are known for their compatibility with a wide range of fish species, including the Green Mandarin Dragonet.
• 3. Yellow Watchman Goby (Cryptocentrus cinctus): These gobies are peaceful and will not typically pose a threat to the Green Mandarin Dragonet.
• 4. Royal Gramma (Gramma loreto): Royal Grammas are peaceful and can coexist well with the Green Mandarin Dragonet.
• 5. Six-Line Wrasse (Pseudocheilinus hexataenia): This species of wrasse is known for its vibrant coloration and peaceful nature, making it a suitable tank mate.

Other Common Names:

The Green Mandarin Dragonet is also known as the Psychedelic Mandarin, Green Mandarinfish, or simply Mandarinfish.

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Reefs4Less.com is a trusted online retailer that specializes in saltwater aquarium supplies. They offer a wide range of high-quality products, including live fish, coral, and invertebrates. With a focus on customer satisfaction and exceptional service, Reefs4Less.com ensures that their customers receive healthy and well-maintained livestock. They also provide detailed information and support to help aquarium enthusiasts make informed decisions for their underwater ecosystems.

Popular Questions and Answers:

1. Are Green Mandarin Dragonets difficult to care for?

While they require specific dietary needs and may be challenging for beginners, with proper research and attention to their care requirements, they can thrive in a well-maintained saltwater aquarium.

2. Can Green Mandarin Dragonets be kept in a reef tank?

Yes, Green Mandarin Dragonets are generally considered reef safe and will not harm corals or other invertebrates. However, as mentioned earlier, they may compete with other fish for food.

3. Can Green Mandarin Dragonets be kept in smaller tanks?

It is generally recommended to provide a tank size of at least 30 gallons to accommodate the Green Mandarin Dragonet’s swimming and foraging behaviors. Smaller tanks may result in limited food availability and territorial conflicts with tank mates.

4. Do Green Mandarin Dragonets require a refugium?

While not mandatory, a well-established refugium can provide a natural source of copepods and amphipods, which are essential for the long-term health of Green Mandarin Dragonets.

5. Can Green Mandarin Dragonets be trained to eat prepared foods?

Yes, it is possible to train Green Mandarin Dragonets to accept prepared foods. However, it may take time and patience to wean them off live or frozen foods and onto a prepared diet. It is recommended to purchase captive-bred individuals that have been trained to eat prepared foods to ensure a smoother transition.