ORA Blue Mandarin Dragonet

Quick Stats

• Care Level: Moderate
• Diet: Carnivore
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Reef-Safe: Yes
• Source: Captive Bred
• Approximate Purchase Size: 1/2 to 3/4"
• Approximate Max Size: 4"
• Recommended Tank Size: 30 Gallons or Larger

Overview

This fish is shipped directly to you with exceptional care and high-grade packaging specifically made for live animals from our partner, ORA. This animal is certified by the Mr. Chili Sustainability Alliance, meaning it is sustainably bred, was raised with exceptional husbandry practices, and 2% of net proceeds will be donated to support Ocean Conservation. 

With intricate ribbon-like patterns of royal blue, green, red, and peach, the ORA Blue Mandarin Dragonet is one of the most visually stunning fish in the hobby. Unlike wild-caught specimens, these captive-bred mandarins readily accept prepared foods, making them significantly easier to care for. Peaceful and reef-safe, they thrive in established aquariums with plenty of rockwork for shelter and foraging.

Note: Image is a representation of what to expect. The fish you receive may vary slightly in appearance.

Aquarium Requirements

Aquarium Size

For this particular species, it's less about the volume of water and more about the amount of habitat provided. As a rule of thumb, a minimum tank size of about 30 gallons is recommended for a Blue Mandarin Dragonet. 

Habitat Recommendations

Blue Mandarin Dragonets thrive in an environment that mimics their natural habitat. Here’s how to set up their ideal home:

• Aquascaping: Incorporate plenty of live rock to create ample hiding spots and a thriving habitat for live food. A generous amount of rockwork helps sustain a natural food source, making it a key factor in successfully keeping this fish.
• Substrate: This fish has no specific substrate requirements and can be kept in aquariums using sand of various grain sizes, crushed coral, or no substrate at all.

Water Parameters

Maintaining proper water parameters is crucial for the health and well-being of your fish. While captive bred Blue Mandarin Dragonets tend to be hardy, providing a stable environment will allow them to thrive and stay healthy.

• Temperature: Keep the water temperature between 75-78°F. Stability is key, so use a reliable heater that can limit any temperature swings to about +/- 1°F or less.
• pH Level: This fish will do well in a wide pH range from about 7.7 to 8.5.
• Salinity: The specific gravity should be between 1.020-1.026 (27-35ppt). Use a refractometer to monitor salinity levels accurately.
• Ammonia, Nitrite, and Nitrate: Ammonia and nitrite levels should be undetectable, while nitrate levels should be kept below 20 ppm. Regular water changes and proper filtration will help to achieve this.
• Water Flow: Moderate water movement is ideal. This is most often achieved by using powerheads in the aquarium to move water around. Adequate water flow helps push uneaten food and fish waste into your filtration and also keeps the water oxygenated.

Diet

Blue Mandarin Dragonets are carnivores. All of ORA’s captive bred mandarins will accept a variety of prepared frozen and dry foods upon acclimation to their new tank. They may be offered finely chopped frozen blood worms, fish roe, frozen or live baby brine shrimp, frozen daphnia, and small fish pellets. However in a reef tank, they will often default to live copepods found among live rock.

Feeding Frequency

Feed your Blue Mandarin Dragonet at least once per day with 2-3 small feedings daily being ideal. This frequent feeding schedule helps maintain stable energy levels. Ensure each portion is small enough for them to consume within a few minutes to prevent overfeeding and maintain water quality.

Compatibility

The Blue Mandarin Dragonet is a peaceful fish and can coexist harmoniously with a variety of other peaceful marine species.

Common Tank Mates

• Fish: Clownfish, small Wrasse, Tangs, Rabbitfish, Butterflyfish, Dwarf Angelfish, and other peaceful fish.
• Invertebrates: Dragonets won't bother most invertebrates, so Cleaner Shrimp, Hermit Crabs, Snails, Urchins, and more are all safe to keep.
• Coral: Dragonets are considered Reef Safe and can be kept with Soft, LPS, or SPS coral.

Behavioral Notes

Blue Mandarin Dragonets are somewhat timid fish and are susceptible to being bullied by other tank mates. They can be slow eaters, so take care when feeding to make sure they get their fair share of food. They are best kept singly or as a mated pair.

Acclimation Process

Acclimation instructions are included in each box, but if you misplaced yours or want to know what to expect ahead of time, you can always find an extra copy here: Fish Acclimation Instructions