Marbled Dragonet

Basics

Scientific Name:Synchiropus marmoratus

Family:Callionymidae

Origin: Indo Pacific, Sri Lanka, Maldives

Quick Facts

• Care Level: Difficult
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Lifespan:4-6 years, likely longer
• Reef Compatible: Yes
• Water Conditions:72-78 F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
• Maximum Size: 5.1″
• Diet: Carnivore
• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons

Overview

The Marbled Dragonet gets it’s common name from it’s coloration; their bodies are white with blotchy marbled looking spots that can be varying shades of red or brown.

The tank should have live sand and plenty of rock. They should be housed singly or in a male-female pair, as males will fight with each other. Males generally grow larger and haveelongated, impressive dorsal fins and sometimes brighter colors. They make a good community and reef tank fish.

The Marbled Dragonet is a difficult fish mostly due to it’s diet. Though they can be supplemented with brine shrimp, bloodworms and other meaty foods, they need copepods to thrive. Since they are slow feeders they should not have competition for their food.