Synchiropus Stellatus - The Starry Dragonet
Overview
- Commonly known as the Starry Dragonet.
- Native to the Indo-Pacific region, often found in coral rubble and sandy reef environments.
- Recognized for its intricate spotted pattern resembling a starry night sky.
- A popular choice for reef aquariums due to its unique appearance and peaceful nature.
Feeding
- Carnivorous diet, primarily feeding on small crustaceans and copepods.
- Requires a well-established aquarium with a healthy population of live copepods.
- Can be trained to accept frozen foods such as mysis shrimp and brine shrimp.
- May require frequent feedings to ensure proper nutrition and maintain body condition.
Habitat
- Typically found in coral rubble zones and sandy reef environments.
- Prefers stable water conditions with minimal strong currents.
- Requires a minimum 30-gallon tank, though larger tanks with ample live rock are preferred.
- Needs a mature aquarium with established microfauna to support its feeding habits.
Fish Care
- Optimal water temperature: 74-80°F (23-27°C).
- Ideal pH level: 8.1-8.4, with a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025.
- Requires stable water parameters and high-quality filtration.
- Generally disease-resistant but sensitive to poor water conditions.
- Providing a refugium with live copepods can improve long-term health.
Compatibility
- Extremely peaceful and best kept with other non-aggressive fish.
- Compatible with reef-safe species such as clownfish, gobies, and wrasses.
- Should not be housed with aggressive fish or fast eaters that may outcompete them for food.
- Best kept singly unless housed in a large aquarium with ample food supply.
Aquarium Behavior
- Slow-moving and spends most of its time near the substrate or live rock.
- Known for its unique hovering and gliding movements.
- Generally peaceful but may show territorial behavior towards other dragonets.
- Providing live rock structures and hiding spots supports natural behaviors.