Synchiropus cf. splendens

Identification	A rare color variant of the Mandarin Dragonet displaying a red-orange ground color in place of the typical green, with the same intricate psychedelic blue-orange maze pattern over the body.
Maximum Length	Up to 3 inches (7.5 cm)
Origin	Western Pacific — rare variant; captive bred specimens available
Minimum Tank Size	30 gallons (with established refugium)
Reef Compatible	Yes

Behavior

Identical in behavior to the standard Mandarin Dragonet — a slow-moving, cryptic fish that spends its day hunting copepods and amphipods among live rock rubble. The red coloration is a naturally occurring variant, though far less common than the green form. Captive-bred specimens trained to eat frozen foods are significantly easier to keep.

Diet & Feeding

Carnivore. In the wild, feeds exclusively on small copepods and amphipods. A mature, well-seeded refugium is the key to long-term success. Target trained specimens that will accept frozen mysis or commercially prepared copepod-based foods.

Cautions

Challenging to feed unless captive bred. Requires a large population of live copepods. Do not house with fish that will outcompete it for food. Toxic mucus coat protects it from most predators.