Mandarinfishes
Pterosynchiropus or Synchiropus spp.
Common Name(s): Mandarinfishes: Oscellated/Scooter dragonet (Synchiropus ocellatus), Spotted/Psychedelic/Picture mandarinfish (Synchiropus picturatus), Green/Striped mandarinfish (Synchiropus splendidus), Stellate/Starry dragonet (Synchiropus stellatus)
Reef Fish Guide designation
Keep it wild
Although these fish can acclimate to tanks, they are all very difficult to feed. They have very poor survivability in captivity because a tank must be well established with live sand and/or rock which support a robust population of copepods (tiny crustaceans that naturally populate coral reefs).
Distribution
All of these species are found in the Western Pacific
Maximum Size
They range from 2.4 inches (6 cm) to 3.1 inches (8 cm)
Care Requirements (for experts only)
The most important factor when keeping Pterosynchiropus or Synchiropus spp. is to keep them with docile tankmates that won’t bother them or prevent them from getting enough to eat. Mandarinfishes will nearly always starve in new or under-established tanks.
They need plenty of live substrate and places to hide in a reef aquarium. Please note: You will see Mandarinfishes at nearly every fish store in the area. This is because expert hobbyists have well-developed skills, and special equipment, which helps create a natural environment for the copepods to thrive.
Food
It must be reinforced that the only way these species have a chance of surviving is if they are put into a tank with well established live rock and sand, typically supported by a refugium. Even though they get their main nutrition from copepods, they must still be fed three times a day. Offer meaty foods, including shaved shrimp, vitamin-enriched live brine shrimp, and live black worms. Brine shrimp can be offered using a long pipette, rigid air-line tubing, or a poultry baster to deposit items near the fish on the substrate. Mandarinfishes are methodical feeders that do not fare well with competitors.
Compatibility
If able to survive, the Dragonets and Mandarinfishes are non-predatory and it is recommended that you don’t add these fish to any tank with large carnivorous fish that naturally eat smaller fish. Green and Spotted mandarinfish males ignore all other species but may attack males of the same species.
If you’re looking to purchase captive-bred Mandarinfish, several reputable companies offer these sustainable options:
- Biota Aquaculture: Biota offers captive-bred Green Mandarin Dragonets (Synchiropus splendidus) that are raised in controlled environments, ensuring they are more acclimated to tank life. These fish are trained to accept prepared foods, reducing the reliance on wild-caught copepods.
- AlgaeBarn: AlgaeBarn also provides Biota’s captive-bred Green Mandarins. They emphasize that these fish are hardy and more adaptable to aquarium conditions, making them a great sustainable choice.
- ORA (Oceans, Reefs & Aquariums): ORA offers a variety of captive-bred Mandarinfish, including the Blue Mandarin (Synchiropus splendidus) and Spotted Mandarin (Synchiropus picturatus). These fish are raised to thrive on a combination of commercial diets and live foods, making them a responsible choice for aquarists.
Mandarinfish price
Captive-bred Mandarin fish generally range from $70 to $100. For instance, Biota Aquaculture offers captive-bred Green Mandarin Dragonets (Synchiropus splendidus) for around $99.
Other suppliers, like Oceans, Reefs & Aquariums (ORA), provide similar pricing for their captive-bred Mandarinfish, with some species like the Spotted Mandarin (Synchiropus picturatus) also available in this price range.
These prices reflect the investment in sustainable breeding practices, which contribute to the higher cost but offer the benefit of healthier, more adaptable fish compared to their wild-caught counterparts.
It’s important for potential buyers to consider these factors when purchasing Mandarin fish, as captive-bred specimens are not only a more sustainable choice but also often more resilient in aquarium environments.
Sustainable Practices in Sourcing
When considering adding Mandarinfishes to a reef tank, sustainable sourcing is critical. These species are often harvested from the wild, which can lead to overfishing and damage to natural populations. To support sustainable practices, it is advisable to purchase Mandarinfishes from reputable suppliers who offer captive-bred specimens.
Captive-Bred Advantages:
Captive-bred Mandarinfishes help reduce pressure on wild populations, preserving their natural habitats. These fish are typically better acclimated to aquarium conditions, having been raised in captivity. They are more likely to accept prepared foods and are less stressed by the transition to a tank environment. Additionally, captive-bred fish are less likely to carry diseases or parasites that can be introduced into your tank.
Conclusion
Mandarinfishes are stunning, unique additions to a reef tank, but their care requires a high level of expertise. For those committed to sustainable aquarium practices, sourcing captive-bred specimens is the best approach, ensuring these beautiful creatures can be enjoyed without contributing to the depletion of wild populations. With the right care and environment, Mandarinfishes can thrive and display their full range of behaviors and colors, making them a rewarding challenge for dedicated aquarists.