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Suggested Tank
30+ gallons
Max Size
4 inches
Difficulty
Temperament
Description
The Blue Mandarin Dragonet is a small, brightly colored saltwater fish. It's known for its vibrant blue and orange body, and unique, dragon-like shape. These fish are popular in the aquarium hobby due to their unique appearance and interesting behaviors.
Reef Safe?
Yes, they are generally considered reef safe, but may eat small, beneficial invertebrates.
Environment
Blue Mandarin Dragonets require a well-established tank with plenty of live rock to provide food and hiding places. They prefer a sandy substrate and a tank with plenty of hiding places.
Behavior
This species is generally peaceful and spends most of its time near the bottom of the tank, hunting for food. They are not particularly active swimmers and prefer to "hop" along the substrate.
Owner Reviews
Eli Bartlett
@elijahquarium
So beautiful. I love this fish. It was a dream fish from the start. I dosed live pods for a few months before getting it, and continue to dose periodically. It can always be seen happily grazing the rocks and algae for pods :)
Dalton
@Dalton833
Favorite fish hands down, fun to watch. Make sure to seed your tank with pods prior. I have noticed him eating frozen food that will go to the bottom of the tank, smaller pieces obviously so make sure to get mixed frozen block or something of the sort if pods aren't always accessible over time
klr
@klr369
Gorgeous fish!
Maurice
@Maurice
Stunning fish to see with colourful patterns on its body. Distinction between male and female is super easy. Would keep this fish in a bigger and mature (>1 year) tank next time. If the tank is not mature enough you should dose your tank once in a while with live copepods. This fish is always on the hunt for copepods.
Cooper O’Dell
@Cjodell8
Beautiful fish but can be difficult due to its diet
Savannah
@Sav
First fish I put into my tank, she is beautiful and so peaceful. Definitely 10/10 recommend having one of these guys in your tank. Not as personable but I’m sure as time goes on that will change!
Brittany
@BrittsReef
Sweetest little guy on the reef! Happily flits around the tank looking for food and always comes up to the glass to visit!
NatesReef
@NatesReef
They are one of the most beautiful fish out there ! Make sure you have a solid copepod population before you get one because they are voracious pod hunters.
Brittany
@Brittany24950
Would not recommend for a beginner or someone with a small tank. Researching the biology of these fish is super important with getting them to thrive. Beautiful but on the more difficult side to keep if not properly taken care of. Prepare to culture copepods or buy frequently to restock.
