Spotted Mandarin

Spotted Mandarin Dragonet

Also known as the Psychedelic Mandarin, the Spotted Mandarin Dragonet is one of the most recognizable and visually stunning fish in the marine aquarium hobby. Featuring vibrant blue, green, orange, and black patterning, this peaceful species is a true showpiece for mature reef aquariums.

🔵 Conditioned & Prepared – Actively Eating

Quick Facts

• Care Level: Moderate–Advanced
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Reef Compatibility: Reef Safe
• Minimum Tank Size: 40 gallons
• Size: Ranging from approximately 2–4 inches at adult size

Behavior & Husbandry

Spotted Mandarins spend most of their day slowly foraging across rockwork and sand in search of copepods and other microfauna. Their peaceful demeanor and mesmerizing movement make them one of the most enjoyable fish to observe in a reef aquarium.

They thrive in mature reef systems with established live rock, stable water conditions, and abundant natural food sources. Because they are slow, methodical feeders, they should not be housed with aggressive or highly competitive fish that may outcompete them during feeding.

A mature aquarium with healthy pod populations is strongly recommended for long-term success.

Feeding & Diet

Carnivorous with specialized feeding habits.

What We Feed at Lush Corals:

• Frozen foods
• Prepared foods
• Live copepods when needed

In Your Aquarium:

• Frozen mysis and small meaty foods
• Prepared foods
• Copepods and natural microfauna

Even conditioned specimens benefit greatly from established pod populations within the aquarium.

Compatibility Notes

Compatible with:

• Clownfish
• Gobies
• Blennies
• Peaceful wrasses
• Other peaceful reef fish

Avoid:

• Aggressive tankmates
• Highly competitive feeders
• Fish that may stress or outcompete them for food

Best suited for mature, peaceful reef systems.

Lush Corals Conditioning Process

This fish has been carefully conditioned and prepared prior to sale.

While certain species such as mandarins are not held through our full quarantine process, each fish is:

• Carefully inspected upon arrival
• Proactively dipped and treated
• Observed for health and behavior
• Conditioned to eat prepared foods

This ensures your fish arrives healthy, feeding, and well-adjusted, giving you a strong start in your aquarium.