Green Mandarin Dragonet

[callen]

Scientific Name Synchiropus splendidus

Common Names  Striped Mandarin

Care Level Difficult

Life span 5+

Size 3 - 4 inches

pH 8.2

Temperature 80

Specific Gravity 1.023 -1.025

Carbonate Hardness (dkh) 8-12

Origin / Habitat Western Pacific

Temperament / Behavior Peaceful

Breeding / Mating / Reproduction  Have be breed in captivity and working the right foods to feed when wigglers.  Matt Wittenrich has made great strides with this.

Tank Size 20 gal.

Compatible Tank Mates Many...they have a slim coat that other fish do not find appetizing so is left alone.  Caution is advised with some sea anemones.

Reef safe yes

Diet / Fish Food Carnivore and can be very difficult to feed.  Highly advised to be in a well established tank if you have gotten a wild caught.  Will feed on pods.  Many will starve to death if not enough live food.  It's best to wee them on frozen meaty foods.  Very hopeful for the future to be able to purchase a tank raised mandarin that is already eating prepared foods.

Tank Region Bottom to middle...will spend most of it's time going in and out of the rock.

Gender Males most likely will have a more elongated dorsal spine.  Many times it will be broken off and will grow back.

General Information A beautiful fish but very difficult if not on prepared foods.  A healthy mandarin will have a slightly round belly and vibrant color.  They need plenty of live rock and sand to hide in. 

Written By Callen
Picture By Rob Allen