Blue Mandarin Fish

The Blue Mandarin Fish (Synchiropus splendidus) is a captivating species renowned for its vibrant coloration and intricate patterns. Native to the Indo-Pacific region, particularly the Philippines and Indonesia, this fish is a favorite among marine aquarium enthusiasts.

(REEF SAFE / ADVANCED)

Essential Information:

• Common Names: Blue Mandarin Fish, Mandarin Dragonet
• Scientific Name: Synchiropus splendidus
• Family: Callionymidae
• Origin/Habitat: Found in the Indo-Pacific region, including areas such as the Philippines, Indonesia, and the Great Barrier Reef.
• Maximum Size: Typically grows up to 3 inches (7.6 cm).
• Lifespan: Can live up to 5 years with proper care in captivity.
• Level of Difficulty: Advanced; requires a well-established aquarium with a stable environment and a consistent food supply.

Appearance & Physical Traits:

• Coloration & Pattern: Exhibits a brilliant blue body adorned with orange and green markings, creating a mesmerizing display.
• Body Shape & Structure: Small, elongated body with a slightly flattened head and large, expressive eyes.

Habitat & Environmental Needs:

• Minimum Tank Size: A 30-gallon (114-liter) tank is recommended for a single individual.
• Water Temperature: Maintain between 74°F and 80°F (23°C to 27°C).
• pH Level: Keep between 8.1 and 8.4.
• Specific Gravity: Optimal range is 1.022 to 1.025.
• Aquascape: Provide live rock with plenty of hiding spots and crevices, as the Blue Mandarin Fish enjoys darting in and out of sheltered spaces.

Diet & Feeding:

• Diet Type: Carnivorous
• Preferred Foods: Primarily feeds on copepods and other small invertebrates; may accept cultured copepods or live foods.
• Feeding Frequency: Requires a continuous supply of live copepods; consider supplementing with cultured copepods to ensure adequate nutrition.

Behavior & Compatibility:

• Temperament: Peaceful and shy; spends most of its time foraging for food at the bottom of the tank.
• Social Behavior: Generally solitary; may tolerate conspecifics in larger tanks.
• Tank Mate Compatibility: Compatible with most peaceful marine species; avoid aggressive fish that may stress the Blue Mandarin Fish.
• Activity Level: Moderately active, often seen darting between rocks and occasionally resting in crevices.

Care Considerations & Additional Notes:

• Ease of Care: Ideal for experienced hobbyists due to its specific dietary and environmental requirements.
• Special Requirements: Requires a well-established aquarium with a stable environment and a consistent food supply.
• Breeding Info: Little is known about breeding the Blue Mandarin Fish in captivity.
• Additional Notes: The Blue Mandarin Fish is an excellent choice for reef tanks, as it is reef-safe and provides interesting behavior as it interacts with its environment. It can sometimes be territorial with other dragonets but generally coexists peacefully with other fish.