Green Mandarin Dragonet (Synchiropus splendidus) – Saltwater Aquarium Guide

Quick Stats:

• 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: Green Mandarin Dragonet

The Green Mandarin Dragonet, also known as Synchiropus splendidus, is a popular and colorful fish species that can be kept in a saltwater aquarium. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the necessary information to care for this species in your aquarium successfully.

Habitat

The Green Mandarin Dragonet is native to the Pacific Ocean and is primarily found in the waters around the Philippines, Indonesia, and Australia. They inhabit coral reefs and lagoons, found among live rock and coral rubble.

Reef Safe

The Green Mandarin Dragonet is reef-safe and does not harm corals or other invertebrates. However, it should be noted that they may consume small ornamental shrimp or other tiny crustaceans in the aquarium.

Size

The Green Mandarin Dragonet typically grows up to 3 inches long, making it a relatively small fish species. Providing enough swimming space and hiding spots in the aquarium is important to ensure their well-being.

Temperament

Green Mandarin Dragonets are generally peaceful fish and can be kept with other non-aggressive species. However, they may become territorial towards their species or similar-looking fish, so keeping only one per tank is recommended unless you have a large aquarium.

Sexual Dimorphism

Males and females of the Green Mandarin Dragonet species have slight differences in appearance. Males often have more intense coloration and longer fins compared to females.

Lifespan

The average lifespan of a Green Mandarin Dragonet in captivity is around 3-5 years. Providing proper care, a suitable environment and a nutritious diet can contribute to their longevity.

Diet in Aquariums

Green Mandarin Dragonets are carnivorous and feed on small crustaceans and copepods in the wild. In an aquarium, providing them with a varied diet that includes live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and copepods is important. Some individuals may also accept high-quality pellets or flake foods.

Aquascaping Recommendations

Creating a suitable environment for Green Mandarin Dragonets involves providing plenty of live rock and coral rubble to explore and hide among. This will mimic their natural habitat and allow them to hunt for small prey. Additionally, ensure the aquarium has ample swimming space and a well-established biological filtration system to maintain water quality.

Captive Bred Availability

The Green Mandarin Dragonet is available as captive-bred individuals in the aquarium trade. Captive-bred specimens are generally hardier and more adaptable to aquarium conditions than wild-caught ones. Purchasing captive-bred fish also helps reduce the impact on wild populations.

Compatibility with Other Fish, Invertebrates, or Corals

Green Mandarin Dragonets can coexist with peaceful fish, invertebrates, and corals. However, caution should be exercised when keeping them with small ornamental shrimp or other tiny crustaceans, as they may be seen as potential prey. Choosing tankmates that are not aggressive and do not compete for the same food sources is recommended.

Here are five specific tankmates that are good choices for the Green Mandarin Dragonet:

1. Clownfish – These popular and colorful fish are generally compatible with Green Mandarin Dragonets. They occupy different areas of the aquarium and have similar water parameter requirements.
2. Gobies – Many goby species make great tankmates for Green Mandarin Dragonets. They are peaceful and often occupy the lower levels of the aquarium.
3. Blennies – Blennies are known for their interesting behaviors and can coexist peacefully with Green Mandarin Dragonets. They are also great algae grazers.
4. Firefish – Firefish are peaceful and active fish that can add movement and color to the aquarium. They are generally compatible with Green Mandarin Dragonets.
5. Dwarf Angelfish – Some dwarf angelfish species, such as the Coral Beauty Angelfish, can be compatible with Green Mandarin Dragonets. However, careful observation is necessary to ensure they get along well.

Other Common Names

The Green Mandarin Dragonet is also commonly known as the Mandarin Goby, Mandarin Fish, or Psychedelic Fish.

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Popular Questions and Answers about the Green Mandarin Dragonet

Q: Are Green Mandarin Dragonets suitable for beginners?

A: Green Mandarin Dragonets are not recommended for beginners due to their specific dietary requirements and the need for an established aquarium with a stable copepod population.

Q: Can Green Mandarin Dragonets be kept in a reef tank?

A: Green Mandarin Dragonets are considered reef-safe and can be kept in a reef tank. However, caution should be exercised when keeping them with small ornamental shrimp or other tiny crustaceans.

Q: How often should I feed my Green Mandarin Dragonet?

A: It is recommended to feed Green Mandarin Dragonets small amounts of food multiple times a day. This mimics their natural feeding behavior and ensures they receive enough nutrition.

Q: Can Green Mandarin Dragonets be kept in pairs?

A: Green Mandarin Dragonets are generally territorial towards their species and may not tolerate another individual in the same tank. It is best to keep only one per tank unless you have a large aquarium with ample hiding spots.

Q: Do Green Mandarin Dragonets change color?

A: Green Mandarin Dragonets can exhibit color variations and may change their coloration slightly depending on their mood, environment, or breeding condition.