Red Mandarin Goby (Synchiropus cf. splendidus) Care Guide

Quick Stats:

• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet: Carnivore
• Reef Safe: Yes
• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
• Max Size: 3 inches
• Water Parameters: Temperature: 72°F – 78°F, pH: 8.1 – 8.4, Salinity: 1.020 – 1.025, Ammonia: 0 ppm, Nitrite: 0 ppm, Nitrate: < 20 ppm

Comprehensive Guide: Red Mandarin Goby (Synchiropus cf. splendidus)

The Red Mandarin Goby, also known as Synchiropus cf. splendidus, is a popular and colorful species for saltwater aquariums. This comprehensive guide will give you all the information you need to care for this beautiful fish successfully.

Habitat

The Red Mandarin Goby is native to the Pacific Ocean, specifically the reefs of the Western Pacific region. It prefers areas with plenty of live rock, coral rubble, and sandy substrate.

Reef Safe

The Red Mandarin Goby is reef-safe as it does not harm corals or other invertebrates. However, it may compete with other fish for food, especially in established aquariums with limited food sources.

Size

The Red Mandarin Goby typically grows up to 3 inches long, making it a relatively small fish suitable for smaller aquariums.

Temperament

This species is known for its peaceful nature and can be kept with other non-aggressive fish. However, it’s essential to provide plenty of hiding places to reduce aggression from tankmates.

Sexual Dimorphism

The Red Mandarin Goby exhibits sexual dimorphism, with males being larger and more vibrant in color than females.

Lifespan

With proper care, the Red Mandarin Goby can live up to 5 years in captivity.

Diet in Aquariums

The Red Mandarin Goby is a carnivorous fish that primarily feeds on small crustaceans and copepods. It’s important to provide a well-established aquarium with a diverse population of copepods to ensure its nutritional needs are met. It is also recommended to supplement its diet with live or frozen foods like brine shrimp and mysis shrimp.

Aquascaping Recommendations

To create an ideal environment for the Red Mandarin Goby, include plenty of live rock with crevices and caves for hiding. A sandy substrate is preferred as it allows the fish to sift through the sand for food.

Captive Bred Availability

The Red Mandarin Goby is available as both wild-caught and captive-bred specimens. Captive-bred individuals are generally hardier and better acclimated to aquarium life, making them a preferred choice for hobbyists.

Compatibility with Tankmates

The Red Mandarin Goby is generally compatible with other peaceful fish, invertebrates, and corals. However, it’s important to avoid aggressive or territorial species that may outcompete the goby for food. Here are five specific tankmates that make good choices:

1. Clownfish: Clownfish are peaceful and can coexist with the Red Mandarin Goby. They also add vibrant colors to the aquarium.
2. Gobies: Other goby species, such as the Yellow Watchman Goby or the Firefish Goby, make good tankmates as they have similar care requirements.
3. Cleaner Shrimp: Cleaner shrimp not only add visual interest but also help maintain the health of the Red Mandarin Goby by removing parasites.
4. Soft Corals: Soft corals, such as the Kenya Tree Coral or the Mushroom Coral, can be safely kept with the Red Mandarin Goby as they are not aggressive.
5. Snails: Snails, like the Turbo Snail or the Nassarius Snail, help keep the aquarium clean by consuming algae and detritus.

Other Common Names

The Red Mandarin Goby is also known by other common names, including Mandarin Dragonet, Psychedelic Mandarin, and Green Mandarin.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can the Red Mandarin Goby be kept in a reef tank?

A: The Red Mandarin Goby is considered reef-safe and can be safely kept in a reef tank.

Q: How often should I feed my Red Mandarin Goby?

A: It is recommended to feed the Red Mandarin Goby small amounts of food multiple times a day to ensure it receives enough nutrition.

Q: Can the Red Mandarin Goby jump out of the aquarium?

A: While it is not known for excessive jumping, it’s always a good idea to have a secure lid or mesh cover on the aquarium to prevent accidental escapes.

Q: Can I keep multiple Red Mandarin Gobies in the same tank?

A: Keeping multiple Red Mandarin Gobies in the same tank is generally not recommended, as they may compete for food and territory.

Q: How can I encourage copepod growth in my aquarium?

A: To encourage copepod growth, provide a well-established aquarium with live rock and avoid using chemical additives that may harm copepods. Additionally, adding copepod populations from reputable sources can help establish a healthy copepod population.