Care
The Mandarin is a secretive species known from shallow protected lagoons and inshore reefs. Here it is found in small groups, over silty substrates with coral and rubble, to depths of 18m (59ft). This is a popular aquarium fish that should only ever be added to a well established reef tank, where there will be plenty of live rock and live substrate that supports its natural diet of tiny crustaceans, worms, and small sessile invertebrate life. If added to a newly set up tank, it will starve to death. There should be plenty of hiding places amongst the rockwork, with enough depth of substrate for the fish to bury if it feels threatened. Never add this bottom dwelling fish to a tank housing anemones, as it could easily end up being consumed. Because of the difficulties in feeding the Mandarin, it should not be kept with fish that require a similar food source to survive, as otherwise one species may out-compete the other. There should be relatively calm areas in the tank that allow the Mandarin to locate food successfully. Tankmates should be peaceful and of an easygoing nature so that the Mandarin does not feel harassed and subsequently stops venturing out to feed. It is best to keep a single specimen only, or a compatible male-female pair (females usually prefer a larger sized male). Groups should only be considered for exceptionally spacious aquaria, as in the average sized aquarium, males will fight vigorously. Not to be kept alongside the similar species
S. picturatus. When choosing your Mandarin, check that its body is not emaciated, and that it is actively searching for food. This fish is not recommended for beginners. May also be seen on sale as Striped Mandarin, Mandarinfish, or Mandarin Dragonet.
Feeding
Very challenging to feed. This species will spend many hours searching out tiny invertebrates living in amongst the live rock and substrate. It must be provided with natural prey. A constant supply of tiny live foods for this purpose can be cultured in a fishless refugium. Will often take vitamin-enriched brineshrimp, but this alone will not provide enough sustenance.
Breeding
This species has been spawned in captivity, although raising the fry presents many difficulties. When ready to spawn, a well conditioned pair will swim up from the substrate during the evening, rising into the water column, culminating in a simultaneous release of gametes.
