Mandarinfish

Synchiropus splendidus

Tiny psychedelic dragonet that rises to spawn for a few minutes at dusk.

Encounter score71

ai researched

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Quick facts

The Mandarinfish (Synchiropus splendidus) is a marine species divers can encounter. Typical size: 5–6 cm. Usually seen at 3–12 m depth. Where to see it: Malapascua, Palau, Sipadan and Badian.

Summarised from DIVE-SEEK's recorded catalogue data; omitted values are not yet recorded.

Taxonomic rank

species

Typical size

5–6 cm (total_length)

Maximum size

7 cm

Typical depth

3–12 m

Maximum depth

18 m

Conservation status

Research in progress

Photography difficulty

5 /5

Activity pattern

Crepuscular.

Description

Accepted name confirmed via WoRMS (AphiaID 273264). Conservation status not populated pending a verified Red List reading.

Habitat

Sheltered rubble and branching coral in shallow lagoons.

Behaviour

Spends the day hidden in rubble; pairs rise briefly into open water to spawn at dusk.

Diet

Small crustaceans and worms.

Social behaviour

Territorial males with several females.

Photography notes

A five to ten minute window in failing light. Prefocus on the rubble, use a dim focus light, snoot if possible.

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