Quick Stats for the Spotted Mandarin Dragonet (Synchiropus picturatus)

• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet: Carnivore
• Reef Safe: Yes
• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
• Max Size: 3 inches
• Water Parameters: pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.020-1.025, Temperature 72-78°F

Comprehensive Guide to the Spotted Mandarin Dragonet (Synchiropus picturatus)

The Spotted Mandarin Dragonet, also known as Synchiropus picturatus, is a popular and colorful species for saltwater aquariums. This comprehensive guide will provide you with detailed information about this species to help you successfully care for it in your aquarium.

Habitat

The Spotted Mandarin Dragonet is native to the Pacific Ocean, specifically the waters around Indonesia, Philippines, and Malaysia. It inhabits coral reefs and lagoons, preferring areas with plenty of live rock and hiding spots.

Reef Safe

The Spotted Mandarin Dragonet is reef-safe, as it does not typically bother corals or other invertebrates. However, it’s important to note that some individuals may develop a taste for small ornamental shrimp or other tiny crustaceans.

Size

The Spotted Mandarin Dragonet grows to a maximum size of about 3 inches. It has a slender body and beautiful, vibrant colors, making it a visually stunning addition to any aquarium.

Temperament

This species is generally peaceful and non-aggressive towards other fish. However, it may become territorial towards other Mandarin Dragonets or similar-looking species. It’s best to keep only one Spotted Mandarin Dragonet per tank unless you have a large aquarium with plenty of hiding spots.

Sexual Dimorphism

The male Spotted Mandarin Dragonet is more colorful and vibrant than the female. Males have larger dorsal fins and develop more intricate patterns on their bodies during courtship.

Lifespan

The average lifespan of the Spotted Mandarin Dragonet in captivity is around 3-5 years. With proper care and a suitable environment, they can live even longer.

Diet in Aquariums

The Spotted Mandarin Dragonet is a carnivorous species that primarily feeds on small crustaceans and copepods in the wild. In the aquarium, providing a varied diet that includes live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and copepods is essential. It’s recommended to establish a copepod population in the tank to ensure a constant food source for the Mandarin Dragonet.

Aquascaping Recommendations

Creating a suitable aquascape for the Spotted Mandarin Dragonet is crucial to its well-being. It requires plenty of live rock with caves, crevices, and hiding spots where the fish can retreat and feel secure. The presence of live rock also helps to establish a natural copepod population, which is an essential food source for the Mandarin Dragonet.

Captive Bred Availability

The Spotted Mandarin Dragonet is occasionally available as captive-bred specimens. Captive-bred individuals are generally hardier and more adaptable to aquarium conditions than wild-caught specimens. They also help reduce the pressure on wild populations and contribute to the sustainability of the aquarium trade.

Compatibility with Other Fish, Invertebrates, or Corals

The Spotted Mandarin Dragonet is generally compatible with peaceful fish species and most invertebrates. However, caution should be exercised when keeping it with small ornamental shrimp or other tiny crustaceans, as some individuals may prey on them. It’s also important to avoid keeping it with aggressive or territorial fish that may harass or outcompete the Mandarin Dragonet for food.

Five specific tankmates that are good choices for the Spotted Mandarin Dragonet include:

1. Clownfish: Clownfish are peaceful and can coexist with Mandarin Dragonets. They add color and activity to the aquarium.
2. Gobies: Gobies are bottom-dwelling fish with peaceful temperaments. They can create an interesting dynamic in the tank.
3. Blennies: Blennies are known for their comical behavior and make great tankmates for Mandarin Dragonets. They occupy different areas of the tank.
4. Firefish: Firefish are peaceful and add movement to the aquarium. They are compatible with Mandarin Dragonets.
5. Fire Shrimp: Fire Shrimp are beneficial for the overall health of the tank and can coexist peacefully with Mandarin Dragonets.

Other Common Names

The Spotted Mandarin Dragonet is also commonly known as the Spotted Mandarinfish or the Psychedelic Mandarinfish.

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Popular Questions and Answers about the Spotted Mandarin Dragonet (Synchiropus picturatus)

1. Can the Spotted Mandarin Dragonet be kept in a reef tank?

Yes, the Spotted Mandarin Dragonet is considered reef-safe and can be kept in a reef tank without causing harm to corals or other invertebrates.

2. How big of a tank is required to keep a Spotted Mandarin Dragonet?

A minimum tank size of 30 gallons is recommended for a single Spotted Mandarin Dragonet. Larger tanks provide more swimming space and allow for the establishment of a copepod population.

3. Can the Spotted Mandarin Dragonet be kept with other Mandarin Dragonet species?

It’s generally best to keep only one Mandarin Dragonet species per tank to avoid territorial disputes. However, you can keep multiple species together if you have a large aquarium with ample hiding spots.

4. How often should I feed my Spotted Mandarin Dragonet?

It’s recommended to feed your Spotted Mandarin Dragonet small amounts of food multiple times a day. This mimics their natural feeding behavior and ensures they receive enough nutrition.

5. Can the Spotted Mandarin Dragonet be kept in a fish-only tank?

While the Spotted Mandarin Dragonet can be kept in a fish-only tank, it’s important to provide plenty of live rock and hiding spots to replicate its natural habitat. The presence of live rock also helps to establish a copepod population, which is a vital food source for the Mandarin Dragonet.