{"product_id":"spotted-mandarin-fish","title":"Spotted Mandarin Fish","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Spotted Mandarin, also known as the Psychedelic Mandarin or Picture Dragonet, is a captivating and uniquely patterned fish that adds a splash of vibrant color and intricate design to the home aquarium. Its body is adorned with a mesmerizing labyrinth of swirling lines and spots in shades of green, orange, blue, and yellow, creating a truly psychedelic appearance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA minimum tank size of 30 gallons is recommended for a single Spotted Mandarin, with larger tanks preferred for multiple individuals or a breeding pair. A mature aquarium with a thriving population of copepods and amphipods is essential, as these are the primary food source for this species. Live rock and a deep sand bed provide crucial grazing areas and hiding places. The Spotted Mandarin is a peaceful fish and is generally safe for reef aquariums, as it does not typically bother corals or invertebrates.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDistinguishing between male and female Spotted Mandarins can be challenging, though males may develop a more elongated first dorsal spine. Breeding in captivity is difficult but has been achieved in dedicated systems with a focus on providing ample live food.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Spotted Mandarin is a micro-predator that primarily feeds on live copepods and amphipods found in the aquarium's live rock and sand bed. It is crucial to ensure a continuous and abundant supply of these live foods. While some individuals may eventually accept frozen or prepared foods, this is not guaranteed, and a robust live food source is paramount for their long-term health and survival.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQuick Facts\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eScientific Name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Synchiropus picturatus\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCare Level:\u003c\/strong\u003e Intermediate\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTemperament:\u003c\/strong\u003e Peaceful\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDiet:\u003c\/strong\u003e Carnivore\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eReef Compatibility:\u003c\/strong\u003e Reef Safe\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRegion of Origin:\u003c\/strong\u003e Indo-Pacific\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMaximum Adult Size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 3\"\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRecommended Tank Size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 30 gallons\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Discover Aquatics","offers":[{"title":"Small","offer_id":53075822543137,"sku":"TT-6249-S","price":35.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Medium","offer_id":53075822575905,"sku":"TT-6249-M","price":45.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Large","offer_id":53075822608673,"sku":"TT-6249-L","price":55.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0893\/4044\/4961\/files\/Spotted-Mandarin-Fish-7.jpg?v=1784976973","url":"https:\/\/discoveraquaticsshop.com\/products\/spotted-mandarin-fish","provider":"Discover Aquatics Shop","version":"1.0","type":"link"}