Ruby Red Dragonet (Synchiropus sycorax)

Quick Stats:

• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet: Carnivore
• Reef Safe: Yes
• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
• Max Size: 2 inches
• Water Parameters: pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.020-1.025, Temperature 72-78°F

Comprehensive Guide: Ruby Red Dragonet (Synchiropus sycorax)

The Ruby Red Dragonet, or Synchiropus sycorax, is a stunning and popular species in saltwater aquariums. This comprehensive guide will cover various aspects of this fish to help you understand its habitat, care requirements, compatibility, and more.

Habitat

The Ruby Red Dragonet is native to the Indo-Pacific region, specifically found in the waters of Indonesia. It inhabits shallow lagoons and reef flats with sandy or rubble substrates. These areas provide the perfect environment for the dragonet to search for small crustaceans and copepods, which form a significant part of its diet.

Reef Safe

The Ruby Red Dragonet is considered reef-safe. It will not harm corals or other invertebrates in your aquarium. However, it’s important to note that some larger, aggressive fish may prey on the dragonet, so careful tankmate selection is necessary.

Size

The Ruby Red Dragonet grows to a maximum size of 2 inches. It is a small fish, making it suitable for smaller aquariums.

Temperament

This dragonet species is peaceful and generally non-aggressive towards other tankmates. However, it is best to avoid keeping multiple male Ruby Red Dragonets together, as they may become territorial and aggressive towards each other.

Sexual Dimorphism

The Ruby Red Dragonet does not exhibit significant sexual dimorphism, making it difficult to differentiate between males and females visually. Breeding pairs are typically formed through natural selection in the aquarium.

Lifespan

The average lifespan of the Ruby Red Dragonet is around 2-3 years. With proper care and a suitable environment, they can live longer.

Diet in Aquariums

The Ruby Red Dragonet is a carnivorous species that primarily feeds on small crustaceans and copepods. An aquarium must provide a varied diet that includes live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and copepods. Multiple small daily feedings will mimic their natural feeding behavior and ensure their nutritional needs are met.

Aquascaping Recommendations

creating a sandy or rubble substrate is recommended to mimic their natural habitat when setting up the aquarium for Ruby Red Dragonets. Providing ample hiding spots, such as caves or rock formations, will help them feel secure. Live rock with microorganisms and copepods will also serve as a natural food source for the dragonets.

Captive Bred Availability

The Ruby Red Dragonet is not commonly available as a captive-bred species. Most individuals found in the aquarium trade are wild-caught. However, efforts are being made to develop successful captive breeding programs for this species.

Compatibility with Tankmates

The Ruby Red Dragonet can be kept with peaceful fish species if they are not aggressive or significantly larger. Some suitable tankmates for the Ruby Red Dragonet include:

1. Clownfish – Clownfish are peaceful and can coexist with the dragonet without any issues.
2. Gobies – Gobies are small, peaceful fish that make excellent tankmates for the Ruby Red Dragonet.
3. Firefish – Firefish are known for their peaceful nature and vibrant colors, making them a great addition to a tank with a Ruby Red Dragonet.
4. Blennies – Blennies are generally peaceful and have interesting behaviors, which can provide entertainment in the aquarium.
5. Anthias – Anthias are beautiful and peaceful fish that can cohabitate with the Ruby Red Dragonet.

Other Common Names

The Ruby Red Dragonet may also be known by other common names, including the Ruby Dragonet, Red Scooter Dragonet, and Synchiropus sycorax.

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Popular Questions and Answers

1. Q: Can the Ruby Red Dragonet be kept in a reef tank?
   A: The Ruby Red Dragonet is reef-safe and will not harm corals or other invertebrates.
2. Q: How often should I feed my Ruby Red Dragonet?
   A: It is recommended to feed the Ruby Red Dragonet multiple small meals throughout the day to mimic its natural feeding behavior.
3. Q: Can I keep multiple Ruby Red Dragonets together?
   A: It is best to avoid keeping multiple male Ruby Red Dragonets together, as they may become territorial and aggressive towards each other.
4. Q: What is the minimum tank size for a Ruby Red Dragonet?
   A: The minimum tank size for a Ruby Red Dragonet is 30 gallons.
5. Q: Are Ruby Red Dragonets suitable for beginners?
   A: While the Ruby Red Dragonet is relatively easy to care for, it is recommended for hobbyists with some experience in maintaining saltwater aquariums.

With the information in this comprehensive guide, you should better understand the Ruby Red Dragonet (Synchiropus sycorax) and how to care for it in a saltwater aquarium.