• Co-cultivation of mandarins of different species

  • Jacob7201

Is anyone experienced in keeping mandarins of different species? For example, SYNCHIROPUS SPLENDIDUS with Synchiropus stellatus. Or Synchiropus picturatus with SYNCHIROPUS SPLENDIDUS. Or is it possible to coexist if one species is male and the other is female?

Andrea8397

Mandarins exhibit strong intraspecific and interspecific aggression. Therefore, if one is a male and the other is a female, the chances of peaceful coexistence are virtually nonexistent. Only same-species harem-type keeping is acceptable, for example: one male and 2-3 females of the same species, while combining different species, I repeat, even in the male + female arrangement, is not recommended.

Katie3017

However, there is still an example of successful cohabitation between two different species—a male Synchiropus splendidus and an unidentified sex of Synchiropus spec. (dragonet). However, this should be considered more as an exception to the rule.

Antonio

Does the volume of the role matter?

Leah

The larger the volume of the aquarium, as well as the presence of a full-fledged DSB and a significant amount of good live rock, play a key role in the successful keeping of mandarins. Even one specimen, as the main feeding principle of these fish is bottom-dwelling.

Martin3206

Regarding feeding, I know that I have a Synchiropus picturatus, a female, who is very well-fed. Before that, I had a male regular mandarin fish who constantly fought with his reflection in the background, instead of eating, and eventually died of starvation. The food was on live rock, and I bought a second mandarin fish right away, and it became even thicker.